Michigan Football set to sign strong defensive line Class

Looking ahead to signing day for the 2022 recruiting class, Michigan football is poised to sign a tremendous D-line class. 

The names have changed on Michigan football‘s defensive line board as the 2022 cycle has gone on. Top-150 defensive lineman Anthony Lucas and Justice Finkley were long-time top targets before eliminating Michigan for varying reasons.

Three-star Jordan Phillips looked like a Michigan lean for a while before he ultimately committed to Tennessee. Speaking of Tennessee, No. 1 overall player Walter Nolen continues to move Michigan football on and off his top group.

However, the Wolverines are still on track to sign a strong defensive line group. On September 16th, Michigan was able to flip three-star Mason Graham from Boise State.

Graham may not be a three-star for much longer. A dominant start to his senior season playing both sides of the line of the scrimmage has him in consideration for four-star status and looking like a steal.  Graham will likely play defensive end in Michigan’s 3-4 scheme.

Just this Tuesday, Michigan received a massive commitment both (literally and figuratively) from Kenneth Grant. Outside of Will Johnson, I would argue that Grant is the most important commitment in Michigan’s 2022 class.

Grant already has the necessary size to play nose tackle at 335 pounds and nimble feet to create disruption. Grant already has been too low four-status on 247sports and I think he’s going to keep climbing.

What’s next for D-line recruiting?

Another 300 pounder Michigan is in a good position with, is long-time lean Deone Walker. He is another candidate to move up the rankings despite already holding four-star status.

Walker may end up at offensive tackle, but he has the versatility to multiple spots on Michigan’s defensive line. Lining up Walker next Grant will give Michigan football the much-needed size on the interior that fans have been clamoring for and vastly improve its run defense.

If you include edge rushers, Michigan already has commitments from twitchy four-star Mario Eugenio and high-ceiling three-star Kevonte Henry.

Michigan football also leads the crystal ball for four-star Joshua Josephs, who is one of my favorite prospects in the 2022 class.

So there is a good chance that Michigan signs five four-star defensive lineman/edge rushers. That is before accounting for the lottery ticket that Walter Nolen joins as well and that would be an excellent group.