Michigan football has bolstered its roster by adding UMass wide receiver transfer Anthony Simpson, marking its second wide receiver acquisition from the transfer portal alongside Donaven McCulley, a former Indiana standout. Simpson, standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 180 pounds, entered the transfer portal on October 2, 2024, and has now committed to Michigan with one year of eligibility remaining.
Simpson, a Hartford, Connecticut native, previously played under Michigan’s current tight ends coach Steve Casula during the 2023 season when Casula was the offensive coordinator at UMass. Originally signing with Arizona in the 2020 recruiting class, Simpson was primarily a kick returner during his time there, averaging 19 yards on 18 attempts and achieving a 39-yard long return in 2022. After a redshirt year in 2021, he transferred to UMass, where he excelled in 2023, recording 57 catches for 792 yards and three touchdowns while also contributing as a rusher with 93 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries.
However, Simpson faced challenges in 2024, suffering an early-season injury and subsequently departing the UMass program in late September without public explanation from the then-head coach, Don Brown. Shortly after, Simpson entered the transfer portal in search of a new team. Over his career, Simpson has accumulated 68 receptions for 910 yards and three touchdowns across 32 games.
Primarily a slot receiver, Simpson took 81.9% of his passing snaps in that position during 2023, showcasing his ability to be a downfield threat with an average depth of target of 9.2 yards. He also demonstrated impressive skills after the catch, averaging 8.5 yards per reception.
Simpson is part of Michigan’s effort to enhance its offense following a 19-13 victory over Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31, 2024. Head coach Sherrone Moore emphasized the need for a more explosive offense, particularly in the passing game, and has made adjustments by bringing in Chip Lindsey as the new offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, replacing Kirk Campbell. Along with Simpson, Michigan has brought in 12 players through the transfer portal, including key additions such as wide receiver Donaven McCulley, long snapper Trent Middleton (UCLA), quarterback Mikey Keene (Fresno State), and running back Justice Haynes (Alabama).
This transfer portal class, ranked fifth in the nation, reflects Michigan’s focus on building a balanced and competitive roster for the upcoming season.