Dec 4, 2021; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive back Ja'Den Mcburrows (1) against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Big Ten Conference championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
With significant departures from their 2023 championship-winning team, the Michigan football squad is seeking fresh talent to step up in 2024. The Wolverines, boasting immense talent last season, clinched the national championship. Now, Michigan aims to maintain their momentum, with new players poised to leave their mark on the program. PFF has pinpointed several potential breakout stars for the upcoming season, with Wolverines defensive back Ja’Den McBurrows catching their attention.
“Michigan’s roster for 2024 is set to undergo significant changes, but that doesn’t imply a decrease in talent,” noted PFF. “With numerous highly touted recruits waiting to make their mark, particularly in the defensive backfield, there’s ample potential for standout performances. Ja’Den McBurrows stands out as one such prospect primed for a breakthrough. Despite logging only 182 snaps last season, he garnered a commendable 73.1 overall grade and a 73.9 coverage grade. McBurrows showcased his defensive prowess with seven solo tackles and four run stops in 2023. While targeted 13 times, he yielded just five receptions for 40 yards, culminating in an interception and two pass breakups.”
Ja’Den McBurrows appears poised for progression after a promising 2023 campaign. Having debuted for Michigan football in 2021 with only two total tackles, he skipped the 2022 season before making notable strides last year. With the Wolverines facing the challenge of replenishing their secondary following the departure of key players, McBurrows emerges as a player of interest to watch.
Despite significant losses in their secondary, Michigan football is bolstered by the return of key players, notably standout cornerback Will Johnson. Projected as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Johnson is poised for a stellar 2024 season, arguably ranking among the top cornerbacks in collegiate football.
However, the Wolverines bid farewell to notable talents such as Mike Sainristil and Josh Wallace, both headed to the NFL after productive 2023 campaigns. Additionally, the departure of expected starter Keon Sabb to Alabama via the transfer portal and the injury setback of Rod Moore, who played a pivotal role in securing a victory against Ohio State, present challenges for the team’s secondary.
Despite these losses, Michigan’s defense remains formidable, particularly due to its dominant defensive line. Returning talents like Mason Graham, a prospective first-round selection, along with Kenneth Grant and Josiah Stewart, ensure that the defensive front will be among the nation’s best.
With a strong defensive unit, Michigan is poised to compete with any team nationally. Notably, the Wolverines limited opponents to fewer than 24 points per game last season, a trend they aim to replicate for another successful campaign in 2024.
