Michigan football enters 2025 season with a new leader on defense

Michigan’s defense is entering the 2025 season underestimated and with a chip on its shoulder after several notable offseason losses. Defensive tackles Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, as well as edge rusher Josiah Stewart and cornerback Will Johnson, were all drafted to NFL teams in the 2025 draft. 

With their departure, Michigan defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny takes on a new role for the Wolverines' defense this year and has high expectations as a starter entering his fifth season. Throughout his career at Michigan, Benny has been a talented reserve player on defense for the Wolverines. 

After breaking his leg in the Rose Bowl win against Alabama, Benny played in 11 games last season with the Wolverines. He recorded 29 tackles and 1.5 sacks last season for Michigan. The highlight of Benny’s 2024 season was being awarded Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors after the Wolverines upset the No. 2-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes in Columbus.

Despite being the best returning defensive tackle in the Big Ten by Pro Football Focus, Benny hasn’t earned the recognition that previous players at his position have received. In a recent ESPN list of the best college football players at their positions in a preview for the 2026 NFL Draft, Michigan safety Rod Moore was the only Wolverine who made the list.

Benny has the opportunity to prove the critics wrong this season by having a breakout season, and given his success as a reserve, he should succeed at the starting position in 2025.