With a new offensive structure in place, Michigan’s wide receivers will have a chance to showcase their talents more often in 2025. Here’s what data from Pro Football Focus (PFF) reveals about one of the Wolverines’ most interesting positions this offseason:
Wide receiver stands out as one of the most intriguing position battles to watch this offseason for the Michigan Wolverines . With most guys from last year returning and some new faces in the mix, the unit (hopefully) will be better as Michigan looks to bolster its passing game under new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey.
Using Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades and insights, let’s discuss the key players vying for roles and what they bring to the table.
Donaven McCulley
A transfer from Indiana, McCulley brings both proven production and untapped potential to Ann Arbor. While his 2024 grades (69.4 overall, 68.4 in the passing game) are solid, he only played 20 total snaps. The former Hoosier’s 2023 campaign serves as a far more complete example, in which he earned a 76.5 overall grade over 662 snaps.
Over the final five games in 2023, McCulley hauled in 28 catches for 420 yards and five touchdowns, including an 11-catch performance against Illinois. That stretch highlighted his ability to be a dynamic playmaker, something Michigan’s offense has sorely missed at the position. If McCulley can return to that form, he could become a go-to target.
Fredrick Moore
Moore may not have started many games for Michigan in 2024, but he has quietly become one of the team’s most efficient receivers. Last year, Moore led all Michigan wideouts in several PFF categories, including his 66.4 overall offensive grade and 65.5 passing grade. His 11.6 yards per catch also paced the team.
Though Moore has only started three games in 26 appearances, his steady contributions suggest he’s ready for a larger role. With a more dynamic passing attack expected this season, Moore’s efficiency and knack for making the most of his opportunities could make him a breakout candidate.
Semaj Morgan
After a strong freshman campaign in 2023, Morgan took a step back in 2024. His 60.0 overall grade was well below expectations, as he totaled just 27 receptions for 139 yards (5.1 yards per catch). In contrast, Morgan’s averaged 9.3 yards per catch and scored two touchdowns to earn an impressive 82.8 overall grade as a true freshman.
So where does that leave Morgan heading into 2025? His drop in efficiency will undoubtedly be scrutinized, but with a new offensive coordinator and quarterback, he’ll have an opportunity to recapture that magic we saw in 2023 (or risk being buried on the depth chart).
Peyton O’Leary
As Michigan’s most experienced returning wideout, O’Leary brings valuable leadership to the receiver room. He logged 336 snaps in 2024, finishing with nine catches for 95 yards and a touchdown. His overall grade of 55.8 may not stand out, but it should be viewed in the context of Michigan’s limited passing attack last season.
He may not be the flashiest guy on the field, but with his consistency and a revamped offense, O’Leary’s experience could make him a dependable veteran presence and a valuable player in key situations.
Kendrick Bell
The younger brother of former Michigan standout Ronnie Bell, Kendrick logged 342 snaps in 2024, catching seven passes for 70 yards. His 49.4 overall grade reflects his limited production, but his playing time indicates the coaching staff sees potential in him.
Bell’s bloodline and raw athleticism make him an intriguing option. If he can refine his skills and increase production, he could see a meaningful role in the offense in 2025.
Anthony Simpson
A transfer from UMass, Anthony Simpson adds depth — at the least — to Michigan’s wide receiver room. The 5-foot-11, 180-pounder registered just three catches for 16 yards in 2024, but he also only played in two games before leaving the program and hopping in the transfer portal.
However, in 2023, Simpson totaled 601 snaps and earned a 67.8 overall offensive grade by PFF. That year, he compiled 57 receptions for 792 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing 11 times for 93 yards and one touchdown, showing a bit of versatility.
Much like McCulley and Morgan, if Simpson is able to recreate his 2023 season, he could be a huge asset in Michigan’s offense.
Final Thoughts
The Wolverines’ wide receiver corps is easily one of the team’s biggest unknowns heading into 2025. McCulley stands out as the most exciting option, while Moore’s efficiency and Morgan’s flashy abilities make them strong candidates to increase their production as well. Not to mention, incoming true freshmen Andrew Marsh, Jacob Washington and Jamar Browder will likely be given a shot at some point.
With Lindsey now in the fold, Michigan’s wideouts will have a prime opportunity to shine this season. Whether that looks like McCulley taking over as WR1, Moore breaking out, or someone unexpected stepping up, the Wolverines are poised to make strides in their passing game.