Michigan returns both of its starting linebackers from 2022, and added one of the best transfers available in the portal. This is one of Michigan’s most experienced position groups and should be one of its most talented with three potential All-Conference caliber players. Pro Football Focus ranked this unit fifth in the nation coming into the season.
That said, just three players have significant playing experience at the college level, and one is in his first year in Ann Arbor.
Linebackers - Grade: A-
- Starters: Junior Colson, Michael Barrett
- Rotation: Ernest Hausmann
- Depth: Jimmy Rolder, Micah Pollard, Jaydon Hood, Joey Velazquez
- New Faces: Semaj Bridgeman, Jason Hewlett, Hayden Moore
Colson was named to the Bronko Nagurski Award watch list for defensive player of the year, so it’s safe to say expectations for him are sky-high after an excellent 2022.