Just one week ago, it remained a question whether Michigan defensive lineman Rayshaun Benny would return for the 2025 season or enter the 2025 NFL Draft. Last Friday, that question was finally answered when news broke that Benny will forgo the draft for his final season of eligibility.
Retaining Benny is huge news for the Wolverines, especially given what he showed this past season. Looking toward the 2025 season, Benny will be even more important on the defensive line and will take on an even heavier workload in his final season, given Michigan’s departures this offseason.Benny’s rotational role in 2024 should be contextualized to understand why he is poised to make a considerable jump in a much bigger role for the Wolverines. With defensive linemen Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant ahead of him on the depth chart, Benny’s lower usage isn’t because he lacks talent, but instead subsequent to Graham and Grant’s immense prowess. With those two heading to the next level — both projected to be first round picks in the 2025 NFL Draft — Benny finally has the opportunity to step up with the spotlight now shining down on him.Already, Benny has flashed what he’s capable of given an enhanced role in Michigan’s victory over Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl. With Graham and Grant opting out, Benny had the chance to preview what the Wolverines could look forward to in 2025. And slotting into one of the starting position vacancies, Benny did not disappoint. Playing 44 snaps, Benny finished with the fourth-highest PFF grade among Michigan’s defensive players. Throughout the regular season, Benny averaged 28.6 snaps per game in the 10 contests he played in.Undoubtedly, Benny will see a considerable jump in snaps next season compared to 2024. Making the jump from a rotational player to a starter is a trying task, but playing behind Graham and Grant positions Benny well to succeed.
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