BREAKING: Michigan DT Rayshaun Benny announces his return to Michigan in 2025
Michigan defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny announced Friday on social media that he will return for the 2025 season, forgoing the NFL Draft. The senior has been a key contributor to the Wolverines’ defensive line since 2022 and is expected to take on a leading role next year.
A former four-star recruit from Oak Park High School in Detroit, Benny overcame significant challenges in his college career, including a broken fibula suffered during the first quarter of Michigan’s 2024 Rose Bowl victory over Alabama. Despite the injury, Benny rebounded to solidify himself as the primary backup to NFL-bound defensive tackles Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant. His strong play has earned him recognition as one of the Big Ten’s top players at his position, and his return will bolster Michigan’s already formidable defense.
Through four seasons, Benny has appeared in 41 games, breaking out in 2023 with 14 games played, 27 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, one sack, two pass breakups, and one forced fumble. That year, he earned Defensive Player of the Week honors three times for standout performances against Bowling Green, Indiana, and Penn State.
Recovering from his injury during the 2024 offseason proved mentally taxing for Benny, as he watched teammates and coaches move on to the NFL or focus on the upcoming season. However, support from Michigan’s strength and conditioning coach, Justin Tress, and time spent with teammates helped him navigate the emotional challenges. Benny reestablished himself as a valuable player, tallying 14 tackles, including 3.5 tackles for loss, along with two QB hurries and two pass breakups in 2024. Pro Football Focus credited him with 20 pressures and graded him at 83.0 overall, the fourth-highest defensive grade on the team.
Benny attributes his growth to learning from players like Mazi Smith, Christopher Hinton, and Kris Jenkins, taking elements from their games to improve his own. Defensive line coach Lou Esposito praised Benny’s resilience and impact, emphasizing the importance of depth on Michigan’s defensive front in their 2024 national championship run.
As Benny steps into a headlining role in 2025, his leadership and experience will be vital for Michigan’s defense as they aim to remain among the nation’s elite.