As Michigan begins looking ahead to spring ball, the linebacker unit is one group that could undergo significant changes. Jaishawn Barham could move to edge rusher, and that would reshape the front seven if that happens.

Using Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades as a guide, let’s take a look at what each linebacker brings to the table and how they might impact Michigan’s defensive schemes next season.

Ernest Hausmann

Hausmann has been a staple of Michigan’s defense, and his experience will be invaluable in the upcoming season. With an overall PFF grade of 68.0, his contributions extend far beyond the numbers. In 2024, he played an impressive 712 snaps — more than any other defender on the team — and recorded 82 tackles, two sacks and one interception.

Additionally, Hausmann’s 71.3 run defense grade and 75.3 tackling grade showcase the same key traits that have defined successful Michigan linebackers and defenses over the years. While his 61.0 pass rush grade indicates room for improvement, his consistency and leadership position him as a cornerstone of Michigan’s linebacker unit.

Jimmy Rolder

Rolder stands out as Michigan’s highest-graded returning linebacker, boasting an impressive overall grade of 83.2. Rolder led his fellow returning linebackers in both overall production and run defense (82.5 grade). Despite only logging 200 snaps across 12 games, his impact was felt through 19 tackles, two quarterback hits and five quarterback hurries.

With his talent clearly evident when on the field, the expectation is Rolder will emerge as a dominant force next season.

Troy Bowles

With an overall PFF grade of 66.8 and a run defense grade of 66.6, Bowles — who transfered in from Georgia this offseason — is still finding his footing in college football. Despite limited playing time, he recorded just 12 defensive snaps in Athens last year, being a former top-100 prospect hints at untapped potential.

Bowles’ previous experience with the Bulldogs may eventually translate into impactful play for the Wolverines. Though his role last season was minimal, his presence adds depth at the least to the rotation, and he could emerge as a valuable rotational player or even a situational starter as he gains more experience.

Jaydon Hood

Hood has been patiently waiting for his opportunity to shine. With an overall PFF grade of 70.1 in 91 defensive snaps, Hood saw limited action in 2024 but has displayed flashes of brilliance throughout his career. His run defense and tackling abilities — reflected in his most recent grades of 74.8 and 72.6, respectively — suggest he possesses the skills capable of being a good player.

His journey at Michigan has been one of gradual development, as he has had to work his way behind a crowded and talented group. However, Hood’s consistent involvement the last two seasons indicates the coaching staff hasn’t waned on his potential. As the team evolves and the roster adjusts, he could be given an expanded role, allowing him to further develop his game and contribute more consistently on the field.

Cole Sullivan

Rounding out the linebacker discussion is Sullivan, a promising player from the 2024 class. Sullivan’s current contributions have been modest — he had just 14 defensive snaps last season as a freshman — but his potential is unmistakable.

Sullivan’s run defense grade of 61.4 and tackling grade of 73.2 indicate that while he is still be refining his skills, he has the raw talent to become an important piece in the future. His development will be one to watch as he transitions from a promising freshman to a more consistent contributor.

Jaishawn Barham

We are going to include Barham here as well, just as we did in our edge rusher story yesterday. You can check that story out to get a glimpse at his grades from 2024.

Barham played 626 snaps this past fall and compiled 65 tackles and one sack. Solid numbers, but for a starting linebacker, there is room for improvement.

Final Thoughts

With Hausmann providing stability and leadership, Michigan’s linebacker corps has a strong foundation. Rolder’s promising grades suggest he could be primed for a breakout campaign, while Bowles, Hood and Sullivan add quality depth. Plus, Barham could still be manning the linebacker position in 2025 should the experiment at edge rusher not work.

As the Wolverines strive to maintain their defensive dominance, the linebacker position will be a key storyline, with PFF analytics hinting at a season of significant growth for the unit.