Michigan football is actively pursuing players in the secondary from the transfer portal as they aim to bolster their roster for another championship run. With players no longer able to enter the portal, the focus is now on additions rather than preventing departures.
The positions being targeted are clear, with the secondary being a key area of focus. New secondary coach Lamar Morgan is reportedly hard at work, according to Sam Webb of the Michigan Insider.
In the latest transfer news for Michigan football, former Michigan State safety Jaden Mangham is expected to visit next week, following trips to Ohio State and Nebraska. Michigan is also pushing for Terrance Brooks, a former Texas transfer, to visit.
The potential addition of Brooks and Mangham would be significant. Brooks, a 19-game starter at Texas, would likely slot in as an instant starter opposite of Will Johnson, having received honorable mention All-Big 12 honors last season. Mangham, on the other hand, would provide a suitable replacement for Rod Moore, though not identical in style. Despite Moore’s standout performance, Mangham, a former in-state target for Michigan, has showcased his skills with four interceptions over the past two seasons.
If Michigan fails to secure Brooks and Mangham, there are alternative options, particularly at safety. Cameron Broussard, formerly of Sac State and a First-Team All-Big Sky selection last season, is set to visit. He brings solid stats with 73 tackles, two interceptions, and five pass breakups. Wesley Walker, hailing from Tennessee, is another potential addition. Known for his strong tackling and tied to the current coaching staff through Brian Jean-Mary, Walker brings experience with 10 career pass breakups.
Michigan football’s activity in the transfer portal has been noticeable, especially with the spring window for departures closed. While the focus remains on strengthening various positions, the addition of a safety could have a ripple effect on the cornerback spot. For instance, it might allow Zeke Berry to shift to the nickel position, freeing up Ja’Den McBurrows to concentrate on cornerback duties. Thus, adding a safety could indirectly provide more depth at cornerback, although recruiting at least one cornerback remains crucial.
Recent reports indicate that Michigan has been actively engaging with potential transfers, including former 5-star safety Jacoby Mathews and several defensive linemen and secondary players. Among the targets is defensive lineman Jay’viar Suggs, although his numerous offers could present a challenge. Additionally, the Wolverines have secured two wide receivers this week and are eyeing another transfer, former Michigan State safety Jaden Mangham.
According to Sam Webb of The Michigan Insider, Mangham is set to visit Michigan early next week, following a visit to Ohio State this weekend. Mangham, who hails from Michigan, previously chose the Spartans in high school. With impressive stats from last season, including 53 tackles and four interceptions, he could potentially fill the void left by the injured Rod Moore.
On the recruiting front, Michigan experienced a setback with the news that four-star running back Bo Jackson is not considering the Wolverines for his official visits. Instead, he plans to visit Ohio State, Alabama, and Georgia, effectively removing Michigan from contention. This development underscores the need for Michigan football to reassess its approach to NIL and adapt to the changing landscape.
While the Wolverines may secure commitments from in-state recruits like Avery Gach, the pursuit of top-tier talent will remain challenging without evolving strategies in NIL recruitment.
