Michigan Linebackers: Cole Sullivan’s Breakout Push for Bigger Role in 2025 Defense

Michigan linebackers are showing depth in 2025, with Cole Sullivan emerging as a breakout star, pushing for more snaps in a loaded rotation.

Michigan’s Linebackers are Stealing the Spotlight

The 2025 Michigan defense is starting to look different from what was expected. Instead of leaning only on the veteran front line, the Wolverines are watching linebacker Sullivan carve out a role that demands more playing time. His early growth has become one of the season’s most important storylines, proving that Michigan’s linebacker room is deeper than many anticipated.

Veterans Ernest Hausmann and Jaishawn Barham continue to lead the way with their combination of dependability and production. But the surprise has been how quickly others have caught up. Jimmy Rolder looks ready to play starter-level football, Georgia transfer Troy Bowles has given the defense another strong option, and Sullivan has turned heads with his performance right out of the gate.

Michigan Linebacker Depth Surprises Early

Through the opening stretch of the season, the linebackers have proven to be more than just a supporting cast. Coach Brian Jean-Mary said during the pre-Central Michigan press conference that he has “four starters in that room and two other guys that we feel very, very confident” could step in at any time (On3).

That comment reveals how the staff views the rotation: not as backups, but as interchangeable pieces capable of producing at the same level. The flexibility has already paid off, allowing Michigan to mix and match lineups without missing a beat.

Sullivan’s Breakout Start

Sullivan’s production has made it impossible to keep him on the sidelines. He ranks fifth on the team in tackles, leads the Wolverines with two sacks, and is tied for the team lead in tackles for loss. Those numbers are impressive for anyone, let alone a player not yet locked into a starting role.

His quick adjustment to the speed of college football has been clear. Instead of struggling with the transition, Sullivan has shown that he can not only keep up but also make plays that shift momentum.

Coach Jean-Mary’s Endorsement

The stats match what the coaching staff has already been saying. Jean-Mary continued in his press conference, praising Sullivan’s start, calling it “very impressive” and labeling him a “game changer.” The coach emphasized that the season is long, but his willingness to use such strong words this early shows how much trust Sullivan has earned.

That type of endorsement isn’t just encouragement;  it’s a signal that the staff intends to find ways to keep Sullivan on the field, even in a crowded rotation.

Balancing Linebacker Rotation

Michigan’s current challenge is figuring out how to distribute snaps. Hausmann and Barham remain the veterans who set the tone. Rolder and Bowles offer reliable depth. Sullivan, meanwhile, has provided pressure and disruption every time he’s been given a chance.

It’s the kind of “problem” coaches love to have: too much talent. Jean-Mary summed it up by saying, “We knew what type of player Jaishawn is and what he brings to the table. But we were very, very confident in Jimmy and Cole that they would be able to step in and play our level of defense and play winning defense for us.”

Next Test for Michigan Linebackers

This weekend’s matchup with Central Michigan gives the Wolverines another chance to evaluate their linebacker rotation. For Sullivan, it’s an opportunity to prove his early success isn’t a flash in the pan but the beginning of a breakout season.

If his production continues, Michigan may soon have no choice but to view him not just as part of the depth chart but as a vital piece of its defense moving forward.