With the help of Pro Football Focus (PFF), we analyze Michigan Football’s defensive transfer portal additions and how they could replace guys like Mason Graham, Will Johnson and others in 2025:
With standout talents like Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant and Will Johnson heading to the NFL, Sherrone Moore faced the daunting challenge of filling some of the biggest shoes in college football ahead of the 2025 season. His solution? A top-tier transfer portal class loaded with experienced starters and former high-profile recruits.
To get a better idea of what these newcomers bring to the table, let’s break down these players using Pro Football Focus (PFF) data and assess their potential impact in 2025.
Damon Payne Jr. (DT, Alabama)
• 2024 PFF Grade: 62.0
• Run Defense: 63.3
• Tackling: 79.6
• Pass Rush: 52.0
• 2024 Stats: 288 snaps, 12 tackles, one fumble recovery, three pressures, three quarterback hurries
Payne brings experience and stability to Michigan’s interior defensive line. While he wasn’t a dominant pass rusher in 2024, his 79.6 tackling grade shows reliability in wrapping up ball carriers. With Michigan’s defensive front undergoing big changes in 2025, Payne’s presence should help maintain a strong interior rotation.
Tre Williams (DT, Clemson)
• 2024 PFF Grade: 66.3
• Tackling: 69.4
• Pass Rush: 68.9
• 2024 Stats: 303 snaps, 14 tackles (three for loss), two sacks, two fumble recoveries, five quarterback hurries, two pass deflections
At 6-foot-2, 315 pounds, Williams brings more size and strength to the defensive line. He had his most productive season at Clemson in 2024, making plays as both a run-stopper and pass rusher. His balanced PFF output indicates he can contribute in more ways than one, making him a key addition as Michigan begins life without Grant and Graham.
Troy Bowles (LB, Georgia)
• 2024 PFF Grade: 66.8
• Run Defense: 66.6
• 2024 Stats: 12 defensive snaps
A former top-100 recruit, Bowles has untapped potential. Though he played just 12 defensive snaps last season, his physicality and athleticism make him an intriguing depth addition at the least. Expect Bowles to compete for rotational snaps early on, with the potential to carve out a bigger role as he gains experience in Michigan’s system.
TJ Metcalf (S, Arkansas)
• 2024 PFF Grade: 66.5
• Pass Rush: 84.9
• Run Defense: 76.4
• 2024 Stats: 57 tackles (39 solo), three interceptions, one forced fumble
One of the most battle-tested additions to the secondary, Metcalf was a full-time starter last year. He has a nose for the big play, leading his team in interceptions in 2024 while also forcing a fumble. His 84.9 pass rush grade suggests he’ll fit comfortably in to Wink Martindale’s defensre, while his 76.4 run defense grade highlights his ability to make plays near the line of scrimmage. If he can sharpen his skills in coverage, Metcalf has the potential to develop into one of the Big Ten’s best safeties.
Tevis Metcalf (CB, Arkansas)
• 2024 PFF Grade: 41.7
• 2024 Stats: 15 defensive snaps, two receptions allowed (38 yards)
Unlike his older brother, Tevis Metcalf saw limited action as a freshman at Arkansas, playing just 15 defensive snaps. He has three years of eligibility remaining, making him more of a long-term developmental piece. If he can continue to refine his game, he could become an asset down the road.
Caleb Anderson (CB, Louisiana)
• 2023 PFF Grade: 69.8
• 2023 Stats: 23 tackles, one interception, 10 pass breakups
Anderson arrives at Michigan after an injury-plagued 2024 season at Louisiana. Reuniting with defensive backs coach LaMar Morgan should ease his transition, and his 10 pass breakups in 2023 show his potential. While not a marquee addition on paper, he provides valuable depth and experience to a new-look cornerback room.
Final Thoughts
The Wolverines’ defensive transfer portal strategy for 2025 was all about slowing the bleeding from the loss of some of its biggest star, and it looks like they did just that. Payne and Williams bring much-needed depth and stability to the defensive line, while TJ Metcalf could be a plug-and-play addition in the secondary.
Moore filled key gaps at all three levels of the defense. Now, it’s all about how fast these guys can adapt and make an impact.