Michigan Football: 3 Positions That Need Answers Going Into 2023

Special Teams

Michigan football had the fortune of having elite special teams play in 2022. AJ Henning was electric in the return game. Brad Robbins was a solid punter that worked his way into the NFL draft. Jake Moody was, on paper, one of the greatest college football kickers of all time. All three of these players are gone. New players stepping up will be crucial for the Wolverines’ success.

Michigan football has plenty of options for a returner. Roman Wilson returned a number of kicks in 2022 and could work his way into punts as well. Caden Kolesar has experience at the position. Freshmen Semaj Morgan and Cole Cabana are both lightning-quick and could work their way in as well.

The punting job is junior Tommy Doman’s to lose. He backed up both Moody and Robbins last season, kicking two extra points and hitting a 41-yard punt inside the 20. With fewer options at punter, Doman’s spot seems secure.

The kicking battle will be between freshman Adam Samaha and Louisville transfer James Turner. Samaha, while rated highly as a recruit, will likely lose this one and redshirt, while Turner will take the job. Turner wasn’t Jake Moody at Louisville, but he was solid nonetheless. He made over 90% of his field goals in 2022, not missing from inside 40 and recording a long of 48.

Michigan football will likely look for his range to expand a little bit, but Turner will likely be able to provide stability at the position.

Michigan had one of the best special teams units in the country a year ago. While it’s bound to take a step back, they still have an opportunity to be really good.

Given how much the Wolverines can rely on their special teams at times, though, the unit might have to live up to its potential for the team to have a successful year.