If Michigan's defense wants to maintain its stellar reputation, some key players will need to step up in 2026. The Wolverines boast talent across the board, yet the pass rush remains a pressing concern, alongside issues at defensive tackle and linebacker.
Coach Kyle Whittingham has been savvy in leveraging the transfer portal to bolster the roster. With new talent from the 2026 high school class and portal additions, Michigan is gearing up for the season.
One player to watch is John Henry Daley, who notched 11.5 sacks last season with Utah. He’s poised to fill Derrick Moore's shoes, assuming he’s healthy by kickoff. It’s a tall order, but Daley has the potential.
Keep an eye on Dominic Nichols, too. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds, Nichols played in 12 games last season, recording 19 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and a sack. Alongside returning players like Cameron Brandt and Nate Marshall, Nichols is expected to take on a larger role.
According to Trevor McCue of Rivals, Nichols has been turning heads during winter workouts, hinting at a potential breakout season. While consistency in his pass-rush moves is needed, his run defense has been solid. The buzz around Nichols is exactly what Michigan fans want to hear as the team gears up for spring.
While a breakout isn’t guaranteed, the anticipation is certainly better than any negative reports.