Michigan's top 5 returning players in 2024 season ft. Mason Graham

Michigan enters a new era in the 2024 college football season following the departure of Jim Harbaugh. The coach led the Wolverines to the national championship last season but has now left for the NFL.

Harbaugh's former assistant, Sherrone Moore, has taken over the leadership of the program. This helped in retaining key players at a time when coaching changes results in massive transfer portal exodus. Here’s a look at the top five returning Michigan players in 2024.

Top five returning Michigan players in 2024

#1. Mason Graham, DT, Junior

Mason Graham had a brilliant sophomore season with Michigan in 2023. The defensive tackle is ranked as the best returning interior defensive lineman ahead of the 2024 season.

Graham was a second-team All-American in 2023 and was named the defensive MVP in the Rose Bowl against Alabama. He recorded 36 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, three sacks and one forced fumble last season as the Wolverines went on to claim the national championship.

#2. Will Johnson, CB, Junior

Will Johnson return as the best cornerback in the college football landscape ahead of the 2024 season following his outstanding sophomore season in Ann Arbor.

Johnson was an All-American in the previous season and was also named the defensive MVP in the national championship game victory against Washington. He recorded 27 tackles, four interceptions and four passes defended while scoring a touchdown in the previous season.

#3. Colston Loveland, TE, Junior

Colston Loveland is another Michigan player who leads the ranking in his position ahead of the 2024 season. This comes after his superb performance on the Wolverines offense last season.

Loveland played a crucial role in the Wolverines' national title success in 2023, recording 45 receptions for 649 yards and four touchdowns. He was also the team's leading receiver in the national championship game against Washington, with three receptions for 64 yards.

#4. Donovan Edwards, RB, Senior

Donovan Edwards enters the 2024 season as one of the best running backs in the college football realm. He is one of the three players featured in the cover art of the EA Sports College Football 25.

Edwards recorded 497 yards and five touchdowns last season. He rushed for two touchdowns in the national championship game. He also had 30 receptions for 249 yards in the 2023 college football season.

#5. Kenneth Grant, DT, Junior

Kenneth Grant played an important role in Michigan’s national championship success in 2023. He is one of the top interior defensive linemen ahead of the 2024 season.

Grant earned a second-team All-Big Ten selection last season for his performances. He recorded 29 tackles, five tackles for a loss, 3.5 sacks, five passes defended, one interception and two forced fumbles. He will again contribute to the team's defensive resilience in 2024.