Michigan Wolverines Bolster Defensive Staff While Grant Newsome Faces Pressure
Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore led the team to an 8-5 record in his first season, a solid start but not enough to match the heightened expectations for his second year in Ann Arbor. As Michigan undergoes a crucial offseason, pressure is mounting not only on Moore but also on offensive line coach Grant Newsome. In response, the Wolverines are making strategic moves to reinforce key areas, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Michigan has hired Charlotte defensive tackles coach David Denham as an assistant defensive line coach, sources tell @CBSSports/@247Sports.
Before Charlotte, was a DL coach at Western Michigan, where he coached multiple future NFL early-round draft picks and worked with current… pic.twitter.com/FDxOC2TJPG
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) March 14, 2025
Michigan Adds David Denham to Defensive Staff
A significant addition to Michigan’s coaching staff was reported on March 15 by Matt Zenitz of 247Sports. According to Zenitz, Michigan has hired David Denham, the former Charlotte defensive tackles coach, as an assistant defensive line coach. Before his time at Charlotte, Denham was the defensive line coach at Western Michigan, where he played a crucial role in developing multiple future NFL early-round draft picks. He also previously worked with current Michigan defensive line coach Lou Esposito at Western Michigan.
This hire comes at a critical time, as Michigan’s defensive line is adjusting to the departures of standout players Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, both of whom are headed to the NFL. Bringing in Denham strengthens a unit that must remain dominant despite these key losses.
Denham’s Coaching Background and Michigan Ties
Denham is no stranger to the Midwest football scene. At Western Michigan, he and Esposito helped develop defensive linemen like Braden Fiske and Marshawn Kneeland, who became NFL prospects. His experience also extends to recruiting, as he served as the recruiting coordinator at Kalamazoo College during his final year there.
Before his stint at Western Michigan, Denham held coaching positions at the University of Indianapolis (UIndy), Wabash College, and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. As a former linebacker at Tiffin University who later transferred to Ball State, he brings deep Midwest connections and a strong reputation for player development.
Beyond his ties to Esposito, Denham’s move to Michigan reunites him with another familiar face—Biff Poggi, Charlotte’s associate head coach and former Michigan staffer. These connections reinforce the idea that Michigan is strategically building its coaching staff with individuals who understand its culture and expectations.
Grant Newsome Under Pressure as O-Line Coach
While the defensive staff is being strengthened, Michigan’s offensive line coach, Grant Newsome, faces increasing scrutiny. The Wolverines’ offensive line in 2024 did not resemble the dominant, Joe Moore Award-winning units of previous years. They struggled in pass protection, lacked consistency in the run game, and at times appeared outmatched.
Michigan insider James Yoder gave Newsome’s coaching performance a “C” grade for the season, acknowledging that while the unit improved by the end of the year, it still fell short of expectations.
To address these struggles, head coach Sherrone Moore has brought in veteran NFL offensive line coach Juan Castillo as an offensive analyst. While Castillo’s addition is presented as support for Newsome, it also signals concerns about his ability to turn things around on his own.
According to Yoder, Newsome’s job security is in question. “I think he is short for the job. I think he’ll get replaced,” Yoder stated, suggesting that if Michigan’s offensive line does not improve significantly in 2025, Newsome could be on the hot seat.
The Bigger Picture: Sherrone Moore’s Future
Newsome isn’t the only one under scrutiny—if Michigan fails to take a step forward in 2025, the focus could shift to Sherrone Moore’s future as head coach. Moore’s second season carries high expectations, and any signs of regression could lead to larger questions about the direction of the program.
With Michigan making strategic coaching hires to strengthen its staff, the 2025 season will be a defining one for the Wolverines. The success or struggles of the offensive line will play a key role in determining not just Newsome’s fate but potentially the long-term trajectory of the program under Moore’s leadership.