As things stand today, Michigan is in their bye week at 3-1. Although the sport of football is the ultimate team sport, the Wolverines must rely on three key players if they want to keep winning. When people think of Michigan football in 2025, they may automatically say Bryce Underwood. Bryce is every bit of important to this team, as the leader, as a special, and potential generational talent, but there are others that are equally important to keep the machine running well. Three key Wolverines that need to stay consistent and continually elevate their game are Jaishawn Barham, Justice Haynes, and Dominic Zvada.
Jaishawn Barham
Transferred to Michigan after two seasons at Maryland, where he also earned All-Big Ten recognition and was a Freshman All-American. He joined Michigan in 2024 and quickly established himself, starting all 13 games that season. His impact has been acknowledged by both his coaches and opposing coaches, who see him as a potential first-round NFL draft pick at the edge position.
Some of Barham’s key contributions:
- Elevated Pass Rush: Barham's transition to edge rusher has significantly boosted Michigan's pass rush.
- Disruptive Presence: Coaches and opponents alike note his disruptive playmaking ability, forcing opponents to account for him.
- Production: His performance as an edge rusher has included notable pressure and sacks, particularly in recent games against Nebraska.
- Versatility: His ability to play both inside linebacker and edge rusher adds flexibility and strategic options to the defense.
As of September 24, 2025, Barham has recorded 16 total tackles and 3 sacks for the Wolverines. He also has 4.5 tackles for loss and 2 QB hurries. Barham has made a transition from linebacker to primarily playing on the edge this season, leading the team in sacks through four games. If Michigan wants to continue to get to opposing team quarterbacks, they need to look to Barham to remain steady and consistent.
Justice Haynes
An Alabama transfer, Haynes has become a dynamic, game-changing running back for Michigan, providing a consistent rushing attack and leadership for the Wolverines. In the 2025 season, he has been a major difference-maker, becoming the first player in program history to rush for over 100 yards in his first four games. Here are some of Haynes main contributions and highlights as a runner:
- High-volume and high-efficiency production: In his first four games, Haynes posted huge numbers, including 537 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 66 carries, for an average of 8.1 yards per carry. In just four games, he surpassed his best season at Alabama.
- Explosive big-play threat: Haynes possesses breakaway speed and the power to break tackles, giving him big-play potential on any given carry. He recorded four runs of 50 or more yards in his first four games alone.
- All-around versatility: He is not only a talented runner but also a capable pass-catcher and a potent blocker, making him a complete back who can stay on the field in any down-and-distance situation.
- Sets the tone: Haynes's physical style of play and relentless effort set a standard for the team and allow the Wolverines to control the tempo of a game by dominating the line of scrimmage.
Dominic Zvada
Last, but certainly not least is Dominic Zvada. If Michigan wants a shot at the Big Ten, and the College Football Playoff, Zvada must remain steady. Zvada’s key contributions and value to the team are as follow:
- Long-Range Accuracy: Zvada has a powerful and accurate leg, excelling from long distances. In 2024, he was perfect on field goals of 50+ yards, going 7-for-7, including a career-long of 56 yards. His ability to convert from deep adds strategic flexibility to the offense, allowing them to expand the definition of "scoring position".
- Clutch Performance: Zvada has demonstrated a knack for performing well under pressure. For example, in the crucial 2024 game against Ohio State, he made two field goals, including the game-winning 21-yard field goal with 45 seconds left. In the ReliaQuest Bowl, he made all four of his field goals as Michigan defeated Alabama.
- Record-Setting Achievements: Zvada holds significant program and NCAA records, including setting a school record for field goal percentage in a season (95.5%) and tying the NCAA record for most made field goals from 50+ yards in a season (seven). He is the first Michigan kicker to have four or more made field goals at 50-plus yards in one season.
Football is the ultimate team sport. Without Barhman, Haynes, and Zvada, I firmly believe Michigan would be a different team. All three of these players were transfers and are now making up part of what could be a top 12 playoff team when the time is right.