COLLEGE CAREER – This hard-working, talented and intelligent interior offensive lineman proved to be a match for New Orleans with the 24th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. The three-year letterman appeared in 36 games in his college career for Michigan, making 31 consecutive starting assignments to finish his college career. After opening five contests as a freshman in 2017 at right guard, he was the team's center the past two seasons, earning All-Big Ten as a junior in 2019. Ruiz, who declared for the NFL Draft following his junior season, is expected to compete for snaps at both center and right guard.
2019 – Selected second-team All-Big Ten by conference coaches, Ruiz opened all 13 games at center for the Wolverines…The highest-graded pass blocking center in the country, according to PFF College. 2018 – Started all 13 games at center and was an All-Big Ten third team selection (coaches)…Earned first career start at center at Notre Dame, Sept. 1. 2017 – Played in ten games and made five starts at right guard as a freshman as he earned his first varsity letter…Earned first career start at right guard vs. Minnesota, Nov. 4.
PERSONAL – Majored in Afro-American and African studies…Attended IMG (Bradenton, Fla.) Academy, where he helped lead his team to undefeated seasons in both 2015 and 2016…As a senior in 2016, anchored an IMG offensive line that helped the IMG offense produce 2,000 yards through the air and 1,879 yards on the ground in 11 games…Played in the 2017 Under Armour All-American Game…ESPN four-star recruit, ranked No. 69 nationally and the No. 1 center…Attended the 2016 "Opening" Nike Camp in Beaverton, Oregon…Transferred to IMG from Camden (N.J.) High School, where he spent his first two years.
