Michigan Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017
Linebackers
Starting middle linebacker: Devin Bush Jr.
Backup: Mike Wroblewski
Unfortunately, Michigan’s defense is forced to replace 10 starters from an elite 2016 unit which ranked No. 1 in the country, but that doesn’t mean the Wolverines are void of talent. There’s concern in the linebacking corps with two new starters out of three, including middle linebacker, but Devin Bush Jr. could be a breakout candidate.
The sophomore had a quiet freshman season with 11 total tackles, but showed promise during spring ball and is leading the way to start over Mike Wroblewski this fall. The latter had a minimal role last season, finishing with just five total tackles.
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Starting outside linebackers: Mike McCray, Khaleke Hudson
Backups: Joshua Uche, Jordan Glasgow
The lone returning starter to the linebacking corps is senior Mike McCray, and he could be an All-Big Ten performer by season’s end. He was second on the team in total tackles in 2016, only to Ben Gedeon, and really had himself quite the breakout year. He finished with 73 total takedowns, 13.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, six pass deflections, two forced fumbles, two interceptions and a touchdown. Not too shabby.
Sophomore Khaleke Hudson is expected to start at the other outside linebacker spot after finishing with just eight tackles and one for loss in 2016. His role will be growing in a big way. Fellow sophomore Joshua Uche will get some time in the rotation and junior Jordan Glasgow could be a Jabrill Peppers safety/linebacker hybrid.