When the 2015 season began, Jake Rudock was not an NFL draft prospect.

Not close.

The fifth-year senior Michigan quarterback tossed five interceptions in his first three games and looked generally uncomfortable in Jim Harbaugh's offense throughout most of September.

And then, everything changed.

"Rudock is one of those interesting guys, it all came together this past year," ESPN analyst Todd McShay said Saturday. "If you had told me even after the UNLV game when they won this season, I'd have said you're crazy.

"But he just kept getting better and better."

Now, Rudock is a Detroit Lion. The Lions took Rudock with the 191st overall pick in the sixth round of the NFL draft on Saturday.

And while strength (207 pounds) and athleticism are concerns, Rudock's intangibles and accuracy -- coupled with his play down the stretch for Harbaugh and the Wolverines last season -- have most analysts believing that he has the ability to be a quality backup quarterback in the NFL.

Rudock set career highs in passing yards (3,017), touchdowns (20) and completion percentage (64) last season. He led the Big Ten in completion rate and was No. 2 in the league in passer efficiency.

During his final five games with the Wolverines, Rudock threw for 1,574 yards, 14 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. His completion percentage during that stretch was 66.8 percent.

He was also on track for medical school during his final year at Michigan and would like to become a doctor after his playing career is over.

"He's one of the smartest guys you'll ever be around. He has to get stronger and bigger. I told him a few months ago, 'you've got to keep those protein shakes going,' " McShay added. "He has the accuracy to earn a spot on that roster.

"Jake Rudock has come a long way and I would not count him out."

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