The Wolverines are looking to the next man up at tight end. Marlin Klein shared his thoughts on the Michigan offense and what the team needs to find success in 2025:
The departure of Colston Loveland to the NFL means the Michigan Wolverines are looking to find their next standout player at the position in 2025.
That next player very well could be Marlin Klein. When Loveland was dealing with injuries last season, Klein gained meaningful experience and posted 108 receiving yards. The numbers aren’t great — thanks to Michigan’s brutal offense last year — but the reps he earned are paving the way to a brighter 2025 season.
Klein spoke with Jon Jansen on the “In the Trenches ” podcast this week about how he’s approaching a new season as one of the veterans on the team.
Klein on how he’s approaching spring ball differently
Klein knew ahead of the ReliaQuest Bowl he’d be getting more opportunities. While he only came away with seven receiving yards, the experience and expectation of starting is something he’ll channel heading into the fall. Now, instead of chasing guys like Erick All and Luke Schoonmaker, he says he’s chasing “the best version of (himself).”
Klein on any pressure being a veteran player
Jansen asked Klein about how he’s preparing for next season. Klein knows he’s going to be one of the go-to targets if he works hard enough, so he said that he is chasing the best version of himself.
As far as if there’s any pressure as a returning leader, Klein believes “it’s a privilege.” He is looking forward to showing the newcomers what it means to follow the “Michigan way.”
Klein on the QB room
There’s a lot of excitement, discussion and speculation pertaining to Michigan’s quarterback room. Fresno State transfer Mikey Keene is competing with the No. 1 overall recruit Bryce Underwood for starting snaps, and don’t forget about redshirt freshman Jadyn Davis as well.
Klein knows it’ll be important to have some trust built with the guys under center if the offense is to be better this fall. He said most of the focus now is “on building relationships, so when you’re on the field they trust you.”
Klein on the rush attack, Michigan being ‘Tight End U’
Michigan’s run game is the primary focus for the offense, and Klein knows how crucial the tight ends are when it comes to helping the rush attack find success. He told Jansen he “didn’t block before Michigan,” but he’s worked hard to improve his protection.
“I take a lot of pride in it because Michigan is ‘Tight End U.’ It’s one of your jobs,” Klein said.