It is now time for the Michigan Wolverines to consider which players will be expected to step up in support of five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood when he inevitably takes the field this season, now that spring football has concluded.
Certainly, the Sherrone Moore suspension (and potentially more) is a significant concern this summer. However, Michigan will still need to prevail on the field, even if they suffer a loss off of it, despite all of this. And in order to achieve success in 2025, the Wolverines will need to rely on at least three key players.
Justice Haynes, Transfer Running Back
The running offense was always going to be up for grabs this season, as the Michigan Wolverines lost both Donovan Edwards and Kalel Mullings to the NFL Draft this spring. In the bowl game that concluded last year, Jordan Marshall, a rising sophomore, demonstrated proficiency at running back. However, Sherrone Moore and his colleagues recognized that they required additional depth at the position.
Justice Haynes relocated from Alabama in search of a more extensive role as a feature running back, and it is highly probable that he will secure it. Haynes proved to the coaching staff and fans that he is the five-star running back talent they have been seeking since Blake Corum’s departure as soon as he hit the field this spring.
The Michigan spring game was largely silent on the offensive side of the ball. However, Haynes ignited the crowd and the Wolverines offense by delivering the most explosive play of the day (as illustrated above). If Michigan consistently relies on him, there should be an abundance of additional opportunities.
Rayshaun Benny, Defensive Tackle
The Michigan Wolverines have recently lost two of their most talented defensive linemen in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. It is probable that it will be unfeasible to replace Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant one for one (or two for two). Rayshaun Benny, however, is the defensive tackle for Michigan who is most likely to emerge as a game-changer in 2025.
While the majority of Michigan fans acknowledge him as a reliable reserve and role player, they may not be aware of the explosive status he achieved last season. Multiple charting services have reported that he missed exactly zero tackles on the year and accumulated over 20 pass rush pressures with a 10% pressure rate, which is nearly double the positional average. He is now prepared for a season that is truly remarkable, as he will be assuming the role of Mason Graham.
Bryce Underwood’s inaugural live “game action” snap in front of spectators at the spring game was a five-yard Rayshaun Benny sack, and it was no accident. Benny has gradually transformed into a defensive force that can completely derail a game. This year, Michigan must significantly rely on him on the defensive front.
Rod Moore, Safety
In general, the Michigan Wolverines’ defense was not particularly poor last season; however, there were significant issues with the defensive secondary. The defense’s pass success rate allowed was not among the top 50 for the year, as it permitted an excessive number of explosive and undisciplined plays.
It was a significant victory for the Wolverines when safety Rod Moore announced his intention to return for his fifth and final season after missing the entirety of the previous season due to injury. His consistent coverage on the back end of the defense and leadership should restore the unit to its rightful place among the aristocrats.
Rod Moore was widely anticipated to be a potential day two NFL Draft pick due to his demonstrated combination of athleticism, instincts, and production, prior to his injury last offseason. Moore secured six interceptions in 2022 and 2023, which resulted in a passer rating below 60 and a completion rate below 60% when the quarterback was targeted. Moore has the potential to be the most significant player on the defensive side of the field this season.
And if you wish to observe why Justice Haynes, the transfer running back from Alabama, should be one of the most significant players for Michigan in the 2025 college football season, simply view his exploits in the video below!
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