The Michigan Wolverines’ awards 2025 conversation is heating up in Ann Arbor before the first snap of the season. With preseason watch lists now released, several Wolverines. From veterans to emerging stars, they are already in the national spotlight.
Michigan Wolverines 2025 Awards Watch List and Defensive Standouts
Veterans Still on the Watch List
After losing guys like Mason Graham and Colston Loveland to the 2025 NFL Draft, their presence will be missed. However, their departures also create opportunities for new leaders to step forward. Offensive guard Giovanni El-Hadi appears on the Outland Trophy watch list, aiming to be recognized as one of the best interior linemen in the country.
Linebacker Ernest Hausmann has turned heads with his play recognition and sideline-to-sideline speed, making him a name to watch for defensive honors. Running back Justice Haynes joins the Maxwell Award watch list, representing Michigan’s backfield in the national awards race.
New Faces on the Wolverines Awards 2025 Watch List
One name gaining attention in 2025 is linebacker Hausmann. After showing flashes last season, he’s looked sharper in camp. He is reading plays quickly and attacking the ball with speed. It’s no surprise his name is coming up in early Michigan Wolverines 2025 honors talk.
On offense, the wide receiver group is deeper and more competitive than it’s been in years. Younger players are pushing veterans for playing time, giving the coaching staff flexibility to expand the passing game.
Defensive Backs and Linebackers Driving Michigan Football Honors
Michigan’s secondary has been one of the most improved units in camp. Safety Rod Moore has been sharp. His communication has improved, and his coverage has tightened throughout camp. “He’s become the glue of our secondary,” defensive coordinator Jesse Minter said at media day.
Linebackers have been equally sharp. Their improved recognition and faster reads have tightened the middle of the field, forcing quarterbacks to think twice before attacking. This growth has expanded the Michigan football honors conversation beyond linemen and offensive stars. The defense has talent at every level.
Momentum in the Michigan Wolverines Awards 2025 Race
The first month of the season will set the tone. Early performances could push watch list names into semifinalist conversations, and a few breakout players might join the Wolverines’ awards watch list. For Michigan, the 2025 awards race isn’t about one or two stars. It’s about a deep, talented roster ready to earn respect across the country.
Momentum from the Postseason
The ReliaQuest Bowl provided fans with an early glimpse into the future. Freshman running back Jordan Marshall ran for 100 yards and MVP honors, right tackle Andrew Sprague held his own against veteran pass rushers, and tight end Hogan Hansen showed flashes as a receiving threat.
At the Senior Bowl, running back Donovan Edwards and edge rusher Josaiah Stewart used the spotlight to raise their NFL Draft stock.
Honors
First-Time Watch List Selections:
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Giovanni El-Hadi — Offensive Guard — Outland Trophy Watch List
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Justice Haynes — Running Back — Maxwell Award Watch List
As the season unfolds, the Wolverines’ awards race could define the Wolverines’ national profile and potentially bring more hardware back to Ann Arbor.
Main Image: Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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