Whether it’s earning a starting spot, bouncing back from injury, or holding on to their rotational role amid a flood of newcomers, several Wolverines enter spring ball with something to prove:
For some guys, spring ball represents a chance to get back to business. A chance for former starters like Ernest Hausmann or Giovanni El-Hadi to knock the dust off and pick right back up where they left off among their fellow starters.
For others, it’s an audition. A chance to earn a starting job, carve out a bigger role, or simply prove they belong in the rotation.
Here are three Michigan Wolverines with the most to prove this spring.
Trey Pierce
Now entering his third year in the program, Trey Pierce is at a crossroads. He’s played in 20 games along the defensive line and logged over 200 snaps, even earning the start in the Wolverines’ ReliaQuest Bowl win over Alabama. But the path to consistent playing time is getting crowded — and fast.
The additions of veteran transfers Damon Payne Jr. and Tre Williams essentially fill the rotational holes left by Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant. Pierce was already out-snapped by Ike Iwunnah in 2024, and if he wants to maintain a spot in the rotation, he’ll need to make a statement this spring.
The opportunity is still there — especially for someone who’s shown flashes against top competition — but this next few months may determine whether he climbs or falls on a stacked depth chart.
Jyaire Hill
For Jyaire Hill, the 2024 season was a mixed bag. He saw plenty of action, registering one INT and nine pass breakups along the way.
Unfortunately those highs came with growing pains, particularly against elite competition. Hill was burned on double moves and misdirection routes in games against Texas, Ohio State , and Washington. Tightening up his technique and mental discipline will be crucial for the defensive back as he works to solidify his place in Michigan’s retooled secondary this spring.
With portal addition Caleb Anderson, rising star Zeke Berry, and freshman standout Shamari Earls all in the mix, Hill will need to take a big step forward to stay in the conversation. Spring is his chance to do just that.
Kendrick Bell
With Michigan’s receiving corps searching for a go-to target, wideout is one of the biggest question marks on offense. Enter Kendrick Bell — a high-upside athlete who did plenty of dirty work in the blocking game last season.
The younger brother of former Michigan standout Ronnie Bell, Kendrick has the bloodlines and versatility. But this spring is huge for his development. Can he refine his route-running? Can he consistently win 1-on-1s and build chemistry with Michigan’s new QBs?
The Wolverines added veterans Donaven McCulley and Anthony Simpson this offseason, along with promising young receivers like Andrew Marsh and Jamar Browder — so if Bell wants to maintain his status as a rotational regular, now is the time to make his move.