Michigan Football: Why Daxton Hill should move to corner

First reason

As I’ve documented new defensive coordinator Mike MacDonald has a type he wants in his corners and Hill fits the mold. At 6-foot and 192 pounds, Hill has the prototypical size that you want in an outside corner. He also has the speed to go with it and runs in the 4.3s.

That size/speed combination is part of what makes Hill so intriguing as a player. However, it is particularly valuable at corner where you typically want your best athletes.

In addition to his physical attributes, Hill also has good ball skills. In his Michigan career, Hill has two interceptions and seven passes defended thus far. Hill also brings good tackling ability from the safety position. Tackling is an area that Hill improved in last season.

Hill has proven himself to be Michigan’s best cover man. Pro Football Focus graded him as Michigan’s best defensive back in coverage last year. Hill is the kind of player that can thrive on an island.

With Michigan expected to mix in more zone coverages this year, Hill has good instincts and could bait quarterbacks into throwing at him. That could lead to more interceptions for him. If he gets beat, he has the speed to recover and still be a factor in the play.

Hill should be Michigan’s go-to option when it needs to shut down a No.1 WR. Additionally, every other corner gets slotted down into roles where they may be more comfortable.

Gemon Green can excel as a No.2 corner and Vincent Gray can be a spot starter or valuable backup. It also gives Michigan younger corners like Darion Green-Warren, DJ Turner, and Andre Seldon another year to develop.