Michigan Football Recruiting: 3 takeaways from 2018 class

The defense got better

Obviously, not getting Reese was a big disappointment. But still, the Michigan staff did a solid job on the defensive side of the ball. UM had six players ranked in the top 300 according to the 247 rankings, and three of the top four were defenders.

Aidan Hutchinson and Cameron McGrone, who both impressive in the Under Armour All-American Bowl, are guys that should have a chance to contribute right away. Hutchinson at 6-6, 260 is a long, athletic defensive end that can rush the passer. He’s disruptive. McGrone also has a chance to be special and could work his way into the mix at outside linebacker right away.

The other significant addition on defense is corner Myles Sims. He was ranked 171 nationally and has a rare blend of size and speed, seeing as he’s 6-2. What’s even more exciting about the defensive recruits is that a bunch have upside. Vincent Gray, a 3-star corner that signed Wednesday, was highly-sought late in the game. The Wolverines also flipped 3-star defensive end Julius Welschof from Georgia Tech on early-signing day.

Welschof is another 6-6 defensive end that gives the Wolverines another prospect with upside. Corner Demon Green, another 3-star and 3-star safety German Green, will also add depth.

Michigan added impact players, depth and upside at all three levels of the defense. So even without Reese, there is plenty to excited about.