Looking at Michigan’s safety position in 2025 using PFF grades

Michigan’s secondary is undergoing significant changes ahead of the 2025 season. Using PFF grades, let’s take a closer look at the safety position and what fans can expect this year:

With preparations for the 2025 season underway, the Michigan secondary faces a major overhaul. With the departures of standout cornerbacks Will Johnson and Aamir Hall, as well as safeties Makari Paige, Wesley Walker, and Quinten Johnson, the Wolverines will need both experience and emerging talent to step up.

Fortunately, Michigan returns one of the most talented safeties in the country in Rod Moore, while several young players and a key transfer will be expected to contribute. Using Pro Football Focus (PFF ) grades, let’s analyze Michigan’s safety group and what fans can expect this season.

Rod Moore

Moore’s return for a fifth season is massive for Michigan’s defense. A two-time All-Big Ten selection, Moore was projected as a potential third-round NFL Draft pick before tearing his ACL in March and missing the entire season. His injury was a huge setback for the Wolverines, as his leadership and playmaking ability were sorely missed.

In 2023, Moore played 500 snaps and was one of Michigan’s most reliable defenders. Now fully recovered, Moore will be expected to anchor the Wolverines’ secondary and mentor a largely inexperienced group. If he returns to form, he has the potential to be one of the best safeties in college football.

TJ Metcalf

One of Michigan’s most battle-tested safeties in 2024, Metcalf was a starter in just his second year at Arkansas. He played in all 12 games, starting 11, and finished fourth on the team with 57 tackles, including 39 solo. His three interceptions led the team and he also forced a fumble.

At 6-foot-1, 200 pounds, Metcalf possesses ideal size for a Big Ten safety. His 85.1 pass rush grade suggests he could be used in blitz packages more frequently, and his 76.4 run defense grade shows his willingness to come downhill and make plays near the line of scrimmage. If he improves in coverage, he has the potential to develop into a top-tier safety in the Big Ten.

Mason Curtis

Despite playing just 101 snaps last season, Curtis posted the highest overall defensive grade of any Michigan safety. His 85.4 tackling grade seems fitting, given his ability to make plays in open space, while his 78.6 grade in coverage is impressive for someone with limited reps.

At 6-foot-5, 200 pounds, Curtis brings an unusual frame for a safety, but one reminiscent of a young Makari Paige. He has already established himself as a versatile contributor and should see a significant increase in playing time in 2025.

Brandyn Hillman

With Rod Moore back in the lineup, Michigan still needs another safety to step up, and Hillman could be that player. His two pass breakups on nine targets suggest he has solid coverage instincts, and his 76.6 run defense grade shows he isn’t afraid to mix it up in the box. His hard-hitting also proves that.

Hillman played a key role in Michigan’s postseason matchup against Alabama, showcasing his versatility by lining up in different alignments, including as a blitzer. Logging 234 snaps in 2024, he proved his ability to adapt to various roles, which could make him an X-factor in the Wolverines’ secondary this fall.

Jaden Mangham

Mangham is a wildcard in Michigan’s secondary. A transfer from Michigan State , he played a significant role for the Spartans in 2023, logging 606 snaps and recording four interceptions, three pass breakups and a fumble recovery.

However, Mangham missed nearly all of 2024 due to injury, so his impact in Ann Arbor remains uncertain. However, his 82.7 run defense grade from 2023 suggests he is an aggressive downhill safety. If he can regain his previous form, he could provide valuable depth in 2025.

Final Thoughts

Michigan’s safety group has the potential to be one of the team’s most talented position units. Moore’s return is a game-changer, providing leadership and All-Big Ten ability to a defense adapting to significant personnel losses.

Beyond Moore, Metcalf looks primed for a breakout second season after leading Arkansas in interceptions in 2024. Meanwhile, Curtis and Hillman both showed promise in limited action and are expected to take on much larger roles this year.

Michigan’s secondary will undoubtedly face early-season challenges as players settle into new roles, but the talent already in place provides a solid foundation. If the greener safeties develop as expected, the Wolverines’ safety room could still be strong in 2025.