Daxton Hill to NFL draft creates another need for Michigan Football

Daxton Hill declared for the 2022 NFL draft and while it was expected it still creates another need to address for Michigan football. 

There has been a ton of news regarding Michigan football‘s roster over the past few days and on Thursday, more news dropped as Daxton Hill declared for the NFL draft.

It was expected but there was hope he might reconsider. But he’s likely going to be a first-round pick or at the very worst, an early pick on day two so it’s hard to blame him for leaving.

Hill had a breakout season for Michigan football in 2021 and intercepted two passes while recording 69 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and a half-sack. The former five-star recruit is 6-foot and can play both safety and corner, which makes him a valuable defensive weapon at the next level.

Hill’s ideal role might be nickelback in the NFL. Michigan football used him in that role this season and he excelled in run defense, as well as in coverage.

That’s why he’s likely going to be a first-round draft pick. But what does this mean for Michigan football?

Another need area for Michigan football

The Wolverines could use an edge rusher in the transfer portal, as well as a defensive tackle after Chris Hinton declared for the NFL draft.

And actually, Hassan Haskins has just declared for the draft too but with Blake Corum, Donovan Edwards, Tavi Dunlap, and CJ Stokes coming in, the Wolverines should be fine at running back.

Michigan football isn’t in bad shape at defensive tackle either if Mazi Smith returns. The same could be said about safety in a way. Rod Moore is an exciting prospect and he showed at the end of the season he’s more than ready to be a full-time starter.

R.J. Moten also played well at times this season. He wasn’t perfect but he’s more than capable of being a starter too. But depth could be a concern.

Michigan football has signed Keon Sabb, Damani Dent, and Zeke Berry, yet it’s hard to rely on a freshman to make an immediate impact, even if all of them are capable of doing so.

One possible target could be Brandon Joseph, the former Northwestern standout who was the Big Ten Defensive Freshman of the Year in 2020.

Yet, even if the Wolverines don’t add a sure-fire starter, Hill’s departure increases the need for a veteran presence at safety and the transfer portal is the only option available for that.