Michigan Football Defense Loses Another Top Player

The 2023 Michigan football defense will go down as one of the best defensive units in college football history; perhaps even the greatest of all-time after leading the Maize and Blue to a 15-0 record and a national title. That said, Michigan’s elite defense lost another key player yesterday as defensive back Quinten Johnson has declared for the 2024 NFL Draft.

Another key loss for Michigan football defense

Jesse Minter had an impressive defensive backfield last fall, which was led by names like Mike Sainristil, Josh Wallace, and Will Johnson. That said, another defensive back stood out quite often throughout 2023-24, especially due to a substantial number of injuries that Michigan suffered throughout the year: Quinten Johnson.

Quinten Johnson was a graduate student (fifth-year) student last fall, earning his fourth varsity letter and his third Academic All-Big Ten selection. He appeared in all 15 games for Michigan football, making contributions on special teams and as a cornerback as the Wolverines mowed down everything in their path; his season was defined by a pick against Bowling Green, a huge hit against Ohio State, and a crucial forced fumble against Alabama (Rose Bowl).

Quinten Johnson headed to the NFL Draft

After recording 22 tackles, one interception, five pass breakups, and a forced fumble throughout last season, Quinten Johnson has declared for the coming NFL Draft. For the Michigan football defense, this makes the defensive back position even more valuable in the transfer portal when it re-opens for the spring period as the Wolverines look to rebuild their roster and make another National Championship run this fall.