As the losses mount for the Michigan football team, the questions surrounding the futures of their star players with NFL potential continue to grow. With just three games left in the regular season, the decision of whether to suit up or sit out to preserve their health and draft status has become a pressing issue for several Wolverines.

Navigating the Complexities of NFL Readiness and Team Loyalty

Staying the Course: Kenneth Grant's Unwavering Commitment

Kenneth Grant, a defensive tackle projected as a potential first-round draft pick, has made it clear that he has no intention of sitting out the remainder of the season. "I mean, nah, I'm not sitting out," Grant stated emphatically. "Definitely want to go out there and put great things on film." Despite the uncertainty surrounding his draft status, Grant remains focused on finishing what he started, driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection. "Whatever my draft status is, I'm never satisfied with that. Never satisfied until I'm No. 1, that's my mentality."

Grant's dedication to the team is evident in his increased playing time this season. In the Wolverines' national championship campaign last year, he played 403 defensive snaps. This year, through nine games, that number has already reached 432. Grant's commitment to his physical conditioning has allowed him to handle the increased workload, as he aimed to play closer to 330 pounds rather than his listed 239. "It's just a testament to my dedication, just trying to get my body right," Grant said. "I feel like I've done a great job of that. I'm not falling off or anything. I'm not lackadaisical when it comes to game days."

Injury Concerns and Roster Shuffling

While Grant and fellow defensive tackle Mason Graham have played in all nine games this season, other Wolverines with NFL potential have missed time due to injuries. Defensive back Will Johnson has missed the past two games with a foot injury, and tight end Colston Loveland and defensive end Josaiah Stewart have also sat out games this year.

The absences of key players have forced the Michigan coaching staff to make adjustments, with defensive back Zeke Berry having to move from nickel back to cornerback for the Wolverines' recent loss to Oregon. Berry was informed of the likely start at corner just a week before the game, and he has been working at both positions during early practices this week as the team prepares for their matchup against Indiana.

Facing a Surging Indiana Offense

The Wolverines' upcoming opponent, the Indiana Hoosiers, have been one of the surprise stories of the college football season. Under first-year head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers have started the year 9-0, the best start in program history. This turnaround has been reflected in the initial College Football Playoff rankings, where Indiana was slotted at No. 8.

Michigan's defense, already dealing with injury concerns, now faces the daunting task of containing Indiana's prolific passing offense, which ranks 19th in the FBS with 284.3 yards per game and 2nd in scoring at 46.6 points per game. "After watching film, I don't think it's really surprising," Berry said of Indiana's success. "That's a good football team. Got a good offense, good defense, good guys in receiving core, experienced quarterback."

The Wolverines have already faced several high-powered offenses this season, including Oregon, Texas, and Washington, but the challenge presented by the Hoosiers' passing attack is undoubtedly significant. "I mean it's college football, anything can happen," Grant said. "It's a testament to them — they're undefeated, so just another great opportunity to go out there."