Michigan football defense has most preseason All-Big Ten selections

This year’s Michigan football defense is thought to be among the nation’s elite units. With more clarity among the defensive backfield and rising stars waiting in the wings, not to mention a strong veteran presence across the board, the Maize and Blue will likely rely heavily on this defense to propel themselves to yet another Big Ten title-winning season this fall. Today, Pro Football Focus released its 2023 preseason All-Big Ten defense, and Michigan led the way with three defenders making the cut.

Michigan football defense leads the way in 2023 preseason All-Big Ten selections

Three standout members of this year’s Michigan football defense are among the conference’s best and have been named to the preseason All-Big Ten defense.

Kris Jenkins: The first Wolverine named to this year’s Pro Football Focus preseason All-Big Ten list is defensive tackle Kris Jenkins. In years past, Jenkins had a smaller role for the Maize and Blue. However, with defensive tackle depth at a premium, Jenkins has put on significant weight and is expected to be one of the top performers in the conference for the coming year. In the Big Ten, plugging up running lanes is vital to the team’s success, making Jenkins perhaps the most important player among Michigan football defenders this fall.

Will Johnson: Last fall, as a true freshman, Michigan football cornerback Will Johnson showcased his exceptional skills and emerged as one of the top players in the entire nation. Now, entering his second year with the Wolverines, he is poised to take on the spotlight as Michigan’s CB1 for 2023. Against teams like Ohio State, renowned for their passing game, Johnson’s role becomes vital. This former five-star Michigan football commit, who has garnered local acclaim, must rise to the occasion and establish himself as one of the premier corners in the Big Ten, and perhaps even in the entire nation.

Rod Moore: The last Wolverine named to this year’s PFF preseason All-Big Ten first team is safety Rod Moore. Moore secured a starting role for Michigan football in 2022 and is considered a top safety prospect for the 2024 NFL Draft. Several analysts have expressed optimism about Moore’s potential for the 2023 season, recognizing him as one of the best and most athletic defensive backs in college football. Just as he did a year ago, Rod Moore must step up and lead the defense this year, surpassing any safety in the Big Ten with his performance.

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