Michigan Football's Impact Players For 2023: Defensive Line

With a significant number of experienced players returning up front, the Michigan Wolverines should have one of the top defensive lines in the country

After two successful seasons that have resulted in back-to-back Big Ten Championships, the expectations are high in Ann Arbor. Heading into the 2023 season, the Michigan Wolverines are widely regarded as one of the favorites to make the College Football Playoff and compete for a national championship.

Part of the high-level of confidence is based on the fact that Michigan is returning a number of experienced players on the defensive side of the ball, particularly up front. Here's a look at some of the guys on the defensive line who will likely have a big impact on the 2023 season. 

Impact Players 

Kris Jenkins, DL - Senior

• All-Big Ten selection (honorable mention, coaches and media, 2022
• Three-time letterman (2020-21-22)
• Has appeared in 29 career games with 18 starts along the defensive line 
• Started all 14 games at defensive tackle during 2022 season
• Led all defensive linemen with 54 tackles and added 3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks and two quarterback hurries 

Mason Graham, DL - Sophomore

• Shared Defensive Freshman of the Year honors (2022)
• Appeared in all 14 games along the defensive line with two starts at tackle in 2022
• Accounted for 27 tackles with 2.5 sacks, one pass breakup and one QB hurry
• Freshman All-American by Pro Football Focus

Kenneth Grant, DL - Sophomore

• Appeared in all 14 games, including 13 along the defensive line in 2022
• Accounted for eight tackles to earn his first varsity letter in 2022
• Shared Defensive Freshman of the Game honors following his performance against Hawaii (Week 3)

Rayshaun Benny, DL - Junior

Christopher Breiler

• Two-year letterman (2021-22)
• Appeared in 13 games along the defensive line in 2022
• Accounted for 13 tackles to earn his second varsity letter

Depth

Peter Simmons, DL - Junior 

Alessandro Lorenzetti, DL - Sophomore 

Ike Iwunnah, DL - Junior

Cam Goode, DL - Graduate Student