With Josaiah Stewart’s monstrous 2024 performance now a distant memory, Michigan’s edge rotation is poised for a major overhaul in 2025. Drawing on PFF insights, let’s explore what the future holds for this retooled unit:
After losing 2024 sack-leader Josaiah Stewart to the NFL Draft, eyes will be on Michigan’s edge room this spring as the Wolverines try and find the next great pass rusher in Ann Arbor. Thankfully, they don’t have to look all that far down the depth chart, as there are multiple reliable options ready to step up.
Using Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades and insights, let’s analyze Michigan’s edge rushers and what they bring to the table.
Derrick Moore
Moore enters 2025 as Michigan’s most productive returning edge, boasting a 78.8 overall defensive grade by PFF, which leads all returning players at the position. His 86.3 pass rush grade ranked second on the team behind only Stewart in 2024, and he finished with 30 pressures, the third-most on the team.
At 6-foot-3 and 285 pounds, Moore possesses the size and strength to be a dominant, versatile player. Last season, he recorded 19 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks and two pass deflections in 480 snaps. His ability to win 1-on-1 matchups was evident, as he finished fourth among Big Ten edge rushers in pass rush win rate.
Moore’s consistency and pass-rushing ability make him a likely centerpiece of Michigan’s defense in 2025. If he takes another step forward, he could solidify himself as one of the best edge defenders in the conference and a high NFL Draft pick.
TJ Guy
Among Michigan’s returning edge rushers, Guy is the most experienced. He has appeared in 36 games, including 30 on defense with two starts. Last season, he logged 419 snaps, 32 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks and six quarterback hits.
Additionally, Guy’s 77.2 run defense grade was the highest among Michigan’s returning edge rushers. With Stewart’s departure, Guy will have an opportunity to expand his role and become a consistent starter in 2025.
Cameron Brandt
One of Michigan’s most promising young pass rushers, Brandt flashed his potential throughout the 2024 season. He played 265 snaps and compiled 13 pressures, two sacks and one forced fumble. His 71.4 pass rush grade shows he has the ability to become a disruptive force as he gains more experience.
As he continues to develop, Brandt will likely continue seeing snaps in a reserve role this fall.
Kechaun Bennett
A former four-star recruit, Bennett has primarily contributed on special teams throughout his career. He played only 27 defensive snaps in 2024, but his 75.5 overall defensive grade suggests he has potential when given the opportunity.
At 6-foot-4 and 241 pounds, Bennett possesses the physical tools to be a productive player. While he has yet to carve out a major role, his experience and skillset could allow him to become a rotational piece this season.
Dominic Nichols
Another young edge rusher with high upside, Nichols played only 27 defensive snaps in 2024 but showed his potential. At 6-foot-5, 261 pounds, Nichols has the size and length to develop into a disruptive pass rusher.
With several upperclassmen ahead of him on the depth chart, Nichols may have to continue waiting, but Michigan’s coaching staff has continued to praise his potential. As long as he continues to develop, he could earn a bigger role as the season progresses.
Jaishawn Barham
Barham — who is currently listed as a linebacker — reportedly could get some snaps on the edge in 2025. He recorded a 69.6 pass rush grade this past season (12th on the team), so there is some work to be done before he makes any possible transition to edge rusher. However, his 87.2 run defense grade is second among all returning Michigan defenders, and his 83.2 tackling grade highlights his knack for finishing plays.
At 6-foot-3 and 251 pounds, Barham brings a combination of speed and physicality that could make him a dynamic weapon along the edge. He played 626 snaps in 2024, recording 65 tackles and one sack. While his numbers suggest he still has room to grow as a pass rusher, his versatility makes him an intriguing addition to Michigan’s edge group.
With Michigan electing not to bring in a portal edge defender, Barham’s transition could be crucial to the team’s defensive success. If he adapts well, he has the potential to be a breakout player and move him up draft boards.
Final Thoughts
Michigan’s edge room in 2025 is a mix of proven veterans and emerging talent. Moore leads the group with his elite pass-rushing ability, while Guy provides experience and a strong versatile presence. Brandt and Barham bring high upside, and Bennett and Nichols add quality depth.
Michigan will need multiple players to step up to maintain its dominant defensive front. If Moore can take another leap and Guy can become a quality starter, the Wolverines could have one of the most well-rounded edge units in the Big Ten.