Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones (L) talks to former NFL player Tom Brady (R)Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-Imagn Images Tim Heitman-Imagn Images

Winningest player in Michigan football history inks deal with Las Vegas Raiders

Originally posted on Michigan Wolverines on SI
By Jerred Johnson | Last updated May 21, 2025 4:45 PM ET

Former Michigan linebacker Michael Barrett has found his way to Las Vegas. The Wolverine fan-favorite has signed with the Las Vegas Raiders and fellow Wolverine great Tom Brady. Brady is a part owner of the Raiders and reportedly has been heavily involved in personnel decisions.

Barrett used his longevity and willingness to play a multitude of positions at Michigan to become a National Champion and the winningest player ever in Michigans long and storied history. Barrett left Ann Arbor with 61 wins, to go along with three Big Ten rings and the 2023 National Championship. After declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft, he was selected in the 7th round 240th overall by the Carolina Panthers. Barrett has struggled to find his footing in the NFL and has already had stints with the Panthers, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns and the Green Bay Packers.

We have signed LB Michael Barrett and waived LB Wesley Steiner. pic.twitter.com/sjeQBK92su
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) May 21, 2025

While he has struggled in the NFL, Michigan fans know that Barrett has a couple of intangible skills which cannot be taught. He is a born leader and is as resilient as any player in the league. Those skills coupled with his immense faith in himself, and his abilities will serve him well. While Barrett may never become an All-Pro player, or even a consistent contributor within the NFL, he almost certainly has an amazing career ahead of himself as a coach or front office member. The guy loves football and just dedicates himself 110% to everything he does. The Raiders will certainly see that at training camp out of Barrett.

This article first appeared on Michigan Wolverines on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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