Michigan Football: Predicting the two-deep for defense after spring

DE

Starters: Kwity Paye, Aidan Hutchinson

When it comes to defensive end, Michigan football has some pretty big shoes to fill. Gary is gone and so is Winovich and not only were those two guys very good pass rushers, but they also held up extremely well in the running game.

In terms of guys that can hold the edge in run downs, Hutchinson and Paye are the best in that regard. Paye is so assignment sure, Don Brown called him one of the best players in the country recently, saying he never gets fooled. Paye played well last season, along with edge rusher Josh Uche, but Hutchinson stands out against the run and took a huge step forward this spring.

Backup(s): Josh Uche, Mike Danna, Luiji Vilain, Julius Welschof, David Ojabo

It’s hard to list Uche as a backup, especially since he is the Wolverines top returning in sacks with seven a year ago, I just don’t see Uche playing defensive end enough to be considered a starter there. I believe he is going to rush the passer, while also playing some outside linebacker. He’s a versatile guy and can play snaps at multiple spots. Danna, a graduate transfer, should add some experience, while some other young guys that have drawn praise should also contribute.