Michigan football got some of the best news it has received all offseason on Thursday as defensive back Rod Moore confirmed that he will be back for the 2025 season.
The former three-star recruit from Ohio has been a boon for the Wolverines since he signed as part of the 2021 recruiting class. Moore made an immediate impact with 32 tackles that first season and a key pass breakup against Ohio State.
Rod Moore’s announcement video is 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/y6yHqGSzvn
— TheWolverine.com (@TheWolverineOn3) January 24, 2025
As a sophomore, Moore followed that up with a 71-tackle season that also featured four interceptions and three pass breakups. Despite dealing with some injuries in 2023, Moore had 38 tackles, two intercptions and three pass breakups.
Michigan football fans will never forget his interception in the 2023 edition of "The Game" which sealed the win for the Wolverines, who eventually won the national title.
Moore missed the entire 2024 season with an injury. There was some thought that he could still head to the NFL draft. If he did, I have no doubt he would get drafted. Some were talking about him as a potential first-round pick before the injury, so it's smart for him to return in an effort to boost his stock.
Rod Moore will boost Michigan football secondary
It also gives the Wolverines another playmaker in the secondary, which needs one after the departure of Will Johnson. It's likely that Moore will play the nickel spot.
Makari Paige played there at the end of the season. Mike Sainristil of course dominated in the role in 2022 and 2023 and it feels like Moore could have similar success. He's also an eraser on the back end of the defense and he'll be the best defensive back on the team, regardless of where he plays.
So yes, this is a massive win for Michigan football and frankly, more important than any transfer portal addition the Wolverines have made so far this offseason.