With spring ball just a couple weeks away, we look at three Michigan Football position groups that could be better than expected in the 2025 season:
As Michigan football heads into spring practices, the Wolverines find themselves in that all-too-familiar period of offseason transition where nothing is certain. While there are clear strengths on the roster, several positions have question marks due to departures, injuries and player development.
However, there are a few positions that might surprise people when the Wolverines take the field this fall. Here are three position groups that could exceed expectations.
Linebacker
Despite losing some key contributors from last season, Michigan’s linebacker unit is quietly shaping up to be one of the strongest on the defense. Leading the way is Ernest Hausmann, who played more defensive snaps than any other Wolverine in 2024. Now entering his senior season, he is expected to take on an even greater leadership role and will be the key on-field communicator for the defense.
Jaishawn Barham returns after a strong first season in Ann Arbor following his transfer from Maryland. He started all 13 games, recording 66 tackles and earning an impressive 87.2 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus. He could be used in a more versatile role this season, potentially lining up as an edge rusher at times.
Should Barham slide into a new role, the Wolverines have plenty of options to fill the gap. Jimmy Rolder is expected to take on a bigger role this season, while Jaydon Hood brings experience to the rotation. Additionally, Michigan added former Georgia linebacker Troy Bowles — who still has three years of eligibility remaining — and still has Cole Sullivan waiting in the wings as well.
Freshmen Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng and Chase Taylor were both early enrollees and will get a chance to prove themselves this spring.
Offensive Line
After a season of growing pains in 2024, Michigan’s offensive line could be more of a strength in 2025 than many expect. At center, Greg Crippen finally gets his opportunity to be “the guy.” With a year of experience under his belt, he should be a steady presence in the middle of the line.
On the outside, losing Myles Hinton to the NFL Draft hurts, but the performances of true freshman Andrew Sprague and redshirt freshman Evan Link down the stretch provided optimism for the future. Sprague, despite having minimal game experience, started at right tackle and held his own against Alabama. His size and athleticism make him a prime candidate to anchor the line for years to come. On the other side, Link rebounded from early struggles to reclaim his starting spot, excelling against Ohio State and playing impressively in the ReliaQuest Bowl on the left side.
With Giovanni El-Hadi providing veteran leadership on the interior and the additions of Lawrence Hattar and Brady Norton via the transfer portal — along with true freshmen five-stars Andrew Babalola and Ty Haywood — Michigan’s offensive line could be vastly improved in 2025.
Safety
This position endured its share of ups and downs last season, but it could turn into one of the best units on the team in 2025. The biggest question mark is Rod Moore, who is still recovering from a major knee injury and won’t be ready for spring camp. If he returns to full strength in time for the season, the Wolverines will get back one of the top players at the position in the country.
Here’s the kicker — even if Moore isn’t at 100 percent right away, Michigan has good players ready to step up. Both Brandyn Hillman and Mason Curtis emerged as impact players late last season, showing their ability to contribute in a multitude of ways. Hillman brings a physical edge and can do damage all over the field, while Curtis was a sure-tackler and good in coverage as well.
Michigan also brought in TJ Metcalf from Arkansas, a playmaking safety who led his team with three interceptions last season and showcased his ability as a blitzer. If he continues to hone his skills in coverage, he could become a major asset.