3 post-spring breakout candidates for Michigan football on defense

Jyaire Hill, CB

Michigan football has been looking to add a piece or two at cornerback, but it hasn't happened. Terrance Brooks chose Illinois after his visit, which makes me believe that either Ja'Den McBurrows or Jyaire Hill will be starting opposite of Will Johnson next season.

Hill was a big-time prospect coming out of high school and ranked 194th overall. The 6-foot-2 defender has all the tools to be an effective starting cornerback in the Big Ten.

Last season, he wasn't quite ready to play and DJ Waller passed him on the depth chart. Hill played defensive back in just four games but during spring ball, Michigan football saw some positive developments with Hill. He was a standout during spring practices and had a solid performance in the spring game with a pass breakup down the field.

There are going to be some lumps when you play a young cornerback. But there's only one way to get experience and while a veteran from the portal would help, Hill has the kind of talent that you want to bet on. If he puts it all together, he could easily be a multi-year starter.