Michigan Football: 5 Wolverines to watch against Western Michigan

Daxton Hill, DB

A former five-star prospect, Hill was rated as the top safety in the class of 2019 and hasn’t quite lived up to the expectation in his time at Michigan.

As a true freshman in 2019, Hill tallied 36 total tackles, along with one interception and three passes defended.  In last year’s shortened season, the Oklahoma native recorded 45 total tackles with one interception and four passes defended.

Although Hill hasn’t been bad for the Wolverines in his first two seasons, more is expected from a former five-star recruit.

Despite the lack of true elite-level play, this can be a breakout season for the 6-foot 192 pounds defensive back. Hill has been talked about as one of the fastest and most athletic players on the team.  U-M secondary coach Steve Clinkscale said this about Daxton Hill earlier this offseason.

"“We’re going to need him to be a jack of all trades. I think it really help his skillset. He has the skillset of a corner with the ability to make plays as a safety, and the mindset of a safety. I’m really, really excited about all the plays he can make.”"

Hill will start in Michigan football’s defensive backfield likely along with Brad Hawkins, Gemon Green, and either DJ Turner or Vincent Gray.  With a strong season in 2021, Hill has the potential to be contending for All-Big Ten First-Team as well as All-American status.

Hopefully, the former five-star can show freakish abilities in the season opener on Saturday.