5 things we hope to learn about Michigan Football at Big Ten Media Days

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Football is back! Well, almost. The unofficial start to football season is here, though, as Big Ten Media Days take place in Chicago from July 28-30.

Michigan — which will have its time at the podium on Thursday, July 30 — is represented by head coach Kyle Whittingham, quarterback Bryce Underwood, running back Jordan Marshall and defensive lineman Trey Pierce, and there is no shortage of storylines to discuss.

Here are five things we hope to learn about the Michigan Wolverines at Big Ten Media Days next week.

1. Adapting to coaching staff

The transition that comes with a new coaching staff and significant roster turnover is rarely easy, so it will be interesting to hear how the program has dealt with the adjustment period. Michigan basically rebuilt the coaching staff from scratch and added more than a dozen transfers, which means there are a lot of moving parts as the coaches and players try to get on the same page. This week will give the players a chance to express how it’s been adapting to a new culture, scheme and system.

2. Depth chart developments

It’s currently unclear who will start at linebacker, safety and tight end, so any updates on those position races will be significant developments with the season approaching. Troy Bowles and Chase Taylor are favorites to start at linebacker, but Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng and others remain in the mix. Chris Bracy, Mason Curtis, Rod Moore and Jordan Young are competing at safety, while Zack Marshall, Hogan Hansen and Deakon Tonielli are in the running at tight end.

3. Bryce Underwood’s progress

If there’s one player that will make or break this season, it’s Underwood. Has the former five-star quarterback made major strides in his development that will lead to an improved sophomore season, or will he continue to struggle with inconsistency? With elite physical traits to pair with more disciplined coaching staff and more talent around him, he has no excuse but to be better. Hearing from himself and others, media days will offer a glimpse into Underwood’s progress.

4. Injury recovery updates

There are several players expected to make substantial contributions this season, but are currently dealing with injuries. Edge rusher John Henry Daley was cleared to play on June 1, but it’s difficult to determine expectations as the former Utah edge rusher recovers from an Achilles injury. After enduring a slew of injuries in recent years, safety Rod Moore is healthy and could reclaim his starting spot in 2026. Lastly, offensive lineman Andrew Babalola is set to return to the field after missing his true freshman season with a knee injury.

5. Freshman standouts

One of the most intriguing parts of the preseason is hearing how the freshman class is adjusting to the program. A number of freshmen should have a chance to make an instant impact this year, including defensive linemen Carter Meadows and Titan Davis, wide receiver Salesi Moa and others. It’s likely that multiple freshmen will earn consistent playing time this season, so it will be notable to see if Whittingham mentions which first-year players have stood out the most to him.

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