Michigan football has a likely breakout star at a crucial position

In 2023, the Michigan football defensive line needs to be stellar for the Wolverines to win a third-straight Big Ten title and push for the College Football Playoff, a national title, and more. With crucial losses along the DL, such as Mike Morris (edge) and Mazi Smith (nose tackle), the Maize and Blue are reloading right now — luckily for the staff and fans, Michigan has a likely breakout star waiting in the wings with Kenneth Grant.

A breakout candidate for the Michigan football defensive line in 2023

Since last season, Kenneth Grant has dropped a whopping 20 pounds, moving from 359 pounds in 2022 to 339 pounds heading into the new season. That said, he is still massive, and according to preseason All-Big Ten selection Kris Jenkins, Grant is poised for a big year.

“I’m not gonna hype them up too much” Kris Jenkins said during Big Ten Media Day. “But Rayshaun, Kenneth Grant, and Mason Graham, they’re absolute dogs — they’re animals.

“The biggest thing I love about ’em is that they continue to work they’re hungry. They love getting better. They love learning from their mistakes and becoming better defensive tackles. I think you’re gonna see a lot of improvement and they’re definitely making a lot of statements this year. They’re definitely really coming to their own and I’m really excited and proud of them with how far they come and they’re gonna continue to grow.”

Last year, as a true freshman, Kenneth Grant appeared in all 14 of the Wolverines’ games, 13 of which he was a part of the Michigan football defensive line. He recorded eight total tackles throughout his initial season with the Maize and Blue. Heading into the coming 2023 season, all signs are pointing to Grant being a breakout star for the Wolverines.

There is a lot of hype coming out of spring and fall camp about this massive sophomore defensive tackle, so keep an eye on No. 78 when Michigan’s defense takes the field on September 2nd.