In a stunning development just hours before kickoff, sources have confirmed to ESPN that Michigan’s All-American cornerback Will Johnson will miss the team’s crucial matchup against No. 1 Oregon on Saturday. The junior standout, widely regarded as the top cornerback prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft, has been sidelined with a lower body injury sustained during the Wolverines’ game against Illinois on October 19th.
Lingering Injury Sidelines Star CB
Johnson, who also missed last week’s rivalry game against Michigan State, has been a defensive stalwart for the Wolverines this season. The lockdown corner has already delivered two pick-sixes, showcasing his game-changing abilities against Fresno State and USC.
According to Michigan offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore, Johnson is expected to return at some point this season “for sure,” but declined to provide a specific timeline. The vague nature of the update has left fans and analysts alike speculating about the severity of the injury and its potential impact on Johnson’s NFL Draft stock.
Stepping Up in Johnson’s Absence
With their top defensive playmaker out of commission, the Wolverines will need to rely on their depth at the cornerback position to contain Oregon’s high-octane offense. Sophomore Ja’Den McBurrows and redshirt freshman Myles Pollard are expected to see increased snaps in Johnson’s absence, but matching the All-American’s production and leadership will be a tall order.
Will is an incredible talent and a true difference-maker on the field. It’s impossible to replace a player of his caliber, but we have full confidence in the next man up to step in and contribute.
– A source close to the Michigan program
Johnson’s Draft Stock in Question
As NFL scouts and draft analysts continue to monitor Johnson’s recovery, questions have begun to surface about his durability and long-term prospects. Prior to the injury, the junior cornerback was widely projected as a surefire first-round pick, with some even touting him as a potential top-10 selection.
However, the uncertainty surrounding his return timeline and the nature of the lower body injury have introduced an element of risk that could see Johnson’s draft stock slip if he is unable to return to form this season.
A Defining Moment for Michigan’s Season
The showdown against No. 1 Oregon was always going to be a defining moment for Michigan’s season, but Johnson’s absence has only heightened the stakes. A victory over the top-ranked Ducks would not only solidify the Wolverines’ College Football Playoff credentials but also serve as a statement that they are more than just a one-man show on defense.
As the football world awaits kickoff, all eyes will be on Ann Arbor to see how Michigan responds to this latest adversity. With their star cornerback sidelined and their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the Wolverines face a true test of their resilience and depth. Only time will tell if they are up to the challenge.
