Why Michigan’s safeties will shine in 2025, with or without Rod Moore

Rod Moore’s return is one of Michigan Football’s biggest offseason storylines. But with guys like Brandyn Hillman, Mason Curtis and TJ Metcalf, the Wolverines are better positioned than many realize whether or not Moore is fully healthy to begin the season:

There’s no doubt Rod Moore is one of Michigan’s most respected leaders and experienced defensive backs. He’s a former captain, a national champion, and the guy who sealed The Game in Columbus in 2023.

And while his return from a lengthy recovery remains a major storyline this offseason, it’s time to address the elephant in the room — the Wolverines will be just fine, even if Moore isn’t fully ready by Aug. 30.

That’s not a knock on Moore — far from it. His presence on the sideline alone helped steady a shaky Michigan team in 2024, even as he missed the entire season with a torn ACL. During that time, he remained engaged, coached up younger players and never wavered in his commitment to the program. His leadership matters, but when it comes to what the Wolverines need to succeed this fall, it’s less about the name on the back of the jersey and more about the wealth of young talent.

Michigan’s safety room is one of the deepest, most versatile groups on the team. Brandyn Hillman has steadily developed into a complete defensive back. Now entering his third year, he brings a physical edge and the kind of position versatility that fits perfectly in Wink Martindale’s defense. Hillman can line up in the slot, deep middle, or even as a hybrid box safety.

Mason Curtis, though initially recruited as a linebacker, has transitioned smoothly into the secondary. His length, athleticism and sideline-to-sideline speed have drawn comparisons to former Michigan standout Keon Sabb. Still just scratching the surface of his potential, Curtis was one of the most talked about names this spring and could be this year’s breakout star on defense.

Then there’s TJ Metcalf, a battle-tested transfer from Arkansas who adds a healthy level of starting experience to the group. Metcalf saw action as a freshman in the SEC and doesn’t shy away from contact, making him a strong candidate to earn early playing time. Former MSU Spartan Jaden Mangham also returns after seeing little time in Michigan’s 2024 rotation due to injury.

The Wolverines have been careful with Moore’s recovery, not because they’re desperate, but because they can afford to be. They don’t need him to be the best version of himself in Week 1. If he isn’t fully ready until midseason, for example, they will survive without him until then.

Of course, if Moore does return to his pre-injury form, the Wolverines gain a player who could push them from “very good” to “elite.” But the success of Michigan’s secondary does not hinge on Moore being fully healthy right away.