The 2024 NFL Draft isn’t different for the Michigan Wolverines who showcased their credibility. They procured 13 players who entered the draft, six of whom are now NFL players. But this season isn’t without complications for the Wolverines, which started when Jim Harbaugh left the program after nine seasons. 

Many players ran helter-skelter and hit the transfer portal after Harbaugh transitioned to the NFL. Besides, the number of key players who entered the draft made nothing easier for new HC Sherrone Moore, who had to rebuild the players’ roster and coaching staff. So, the roster you see now is a major difference from the National Championship-winning lineup. But now, almost five months into 2024, Moore seems to have found the light.

Sherrone Moore heaps praise on Will Johnson

With J.J. McCarthy’s departure, a void was left in the team’s leadership. However, it didn’t take long for Sherrone Moore to identify a new “leader” on and off the field. In a recent upload by The Wolverines.com on X, Moore had high praise for star CB Will Johnson, stating, “He’s got all the ability in the world. He’s got the mindset, does it right off the field. He’s a leader. He does everything you want.”

This is high praise from a head coach who wants nothing but to maintain the winning culture that Harbaugh has left behind. Moore said this during his interview in In The Trenches podcast post-spring. Johnson, a Wolverine since 2022, is a highly athletic player who also plays basketball. He played offense in high school and transitioned to the defensive side with an ability to play in various coverages. In 2023, he recorded 20 solo tackles and four interceptions. And he’s moving forward to 2024 with the mindset of a leader. 

Will Johnson is a true leader

Michigan reportedly has 71% returning players, which is a big win for Moore, who’s taking up the HC position for the first time. Despite rumors of a potential move to Alabama, Will Johnson remained steadfast in his commitment to the Wolverines. He expressed his loyalty, saying, “It’s easy to get tempted for sure, especially when you hear all the numbers and all the things like that. We’re so close, and we got a group of guys that are so talented, that’s hard to pass up too.”

Johnson is determined to maintain his leadership attitude as the Wolverines gear up for the 2024 season. The first-team All-American said, “I think just trying to be a better leader on this team this year, being more vocal, tightening down things that have always been kind of a normal thing.” It’s hard to say if the Wolverines will execute like last season, but one thing’s for sure: the strong leadership is still prevalent.