Michigan gets a major boost with former team captain coming back

Michigan Wolverines tight end and fullback Max Bredeson will return for one last season. The team captain announced his return on Wednesday by sharing a highlight video on Instagram. Bredeson was one of the team's leaders, alongside running back Donovan Edwards and defensive backs Rod Moore and Makari Paige.

"Team 146 let's do it. Go blue," Bredeson wrote in the Instagram post.

This season, Bredeson wasn't often given the football by Michigan (8-5, 5-4 Big Ten) quarterback Davis Warren. He had three receptions for 24 yards. However, he helped the team with his leadership, physicality, and work ethic. His role in the fullback position aided the Wolverines being seventh in the Big Ten in rushing yards with 2,043 yards.

Michigan Wolverines ends 2024 strong after a difficult season

The Michigan Wolverines suffered a setback this season following their national championship win. Davis Warren struggled in the starting quarterback position, completing 134 passes for 1,199 yards and seven touchdowns.

At one point, the team seemed to be on the verge of being ineligible to compete in a bowl game. However, the Wolverines regrouped and ended their season with eight wins, including against the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes (12-2, 7-2 Big Ten) on Nov. 30.

On Dec. 31, Michigan played their final game of the season with a 19-13 victory over the No. 11 Alabama Crimson Tide (9-4, 5-3 Southeastern Conference) in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Warren finished the matchup by completing nine of 12 passes for 73 yards and one touchdown.

The Wolverine's defense significantly influenced their win. One of the notable moments was when defensive back Wesley Walker got an interception in the first quarter that led to the team's touchdown.

Michigan's victory ended the season on a high note and gave fans optimism for next season.

"That's what we are built on": Max Bredeson reflects on the Wolverines overcoming issues during the season

Bredeson spoke with the media after his team's win over "The Tide." He was asked how the team finished the season strong despite their issues earlier in the year. The tight end/fullback praised the team's ability to overcome challenges and achieve success.

"Nothing really changed inside. It's just what it is built on. Like it's kind of instilled in us, like the day you get there, like it doesn't matter what situation you are in, you just got to go and some things happened along the way and we lost games, but like, that's what we are built on. Whenever it's time to put it on, go do it," Bredeson said (Timestamp: 0:26).

His return could be what Michigan needs to compete for the national championship next season.