Michigan Football: Predicting Wolverines 2020 starters on defense

DE: Aidan Hutchinson, Kwity Page; Backups: Luiji Vilain, David Ojabo,

Michigan football has definitely been hurt by early departures, there is no question about that, but the Wolverines will at least have both of their starting defensive ends back in 2020.

Aidan Hutchinson and Kwity Paye have both generated buzz as early-round draft picks and it will be up to them to make up for some of the production lost from Uche and Danna. Luiji Vilain is another name to watch as the former top-100 recruit flashed a year ago.

Vilain is my bet to be the No. 3 rusher in 2020, although keep on eye on David Ojabo and also freshman Jaylen Harrell.

DT: Carlo Kemp, Chris Hinton; Backups: Mazi Smith, Donovan Jeter, Jess Speight

Things are pretty clear cut at defensive tackle for the Wolverines with Carlo Kemp returning to start after notching 40 tackles, 2.5 sacks and four tackles for loss last season.

Sophomore Chris Hinton will be another starter after getting significant time down the stretch a year ago. Mazi Smith, Donovan Jeter and Jess Speight should also get plenty of snaps in the defensive line rotation.