Michigan Football: 3 upperclassmen who must step up in 2022

Michigan football had a great 2021 season, but have lost a lot of their production. For some players, now is their chance to step up.

Coming off of its most successful season in over a decade, Michigan football will be looking to build upon its success going forward.

Doing so will not be easy, though, as the Wolverines have lost many pieces that will need to be replaced. From Heisman finalist and No. 2 overall pick Aidan Hutchinson to Chuck Filliaga who provided the Wolverines with great depth on the offensive line, new faces will have to step in and take their roles.

The good news is that Michigan has the pieces to reload. Amassing consistent top 15 recruiting classes, there are talented players waiting in the wings. Their development hasn’t been guaranteed, especially with the numerous coaching changes on both sides of the ball.

While some players will not live up to their potential, others will exceed it.

Here are three players who need to do just that.

3. Gemon Green, CB

Gemon Green is entering his fifth season with the Wolverines, and has seen improvement each year. After being a special teamer, he has started 12 games over the past two seasons, amassing one interception and 11 pass deflections over that span.

With Vincent Gray’s departure to the NFL, Michigan has become a bit thin at cornerback, and while they have younger options such as five-star freshman Will Johnson, their lack of experience will be tough to overcome.

For Michigan’s secondary to be successful, Green must take the next step and become a legitimate plus corner.