The 2025-26 Michigan offensive tackles were marred by youth, inconsistency, and significant injuries that proved too much to overcome. The young players were forced into major roles and looked lost on passing downs. Because of overall youth and injuries, the offensive line never found its footing and had far too many breakdowns in games. So will the 2026-27 line fare any better? They are projected to, but the proof will come in games.
Kyle Whittingham brought over high-regarded offensive line coach Jim Harding from Utah with him. Harding considers himself an educator rather than a traditional coach.
Harding has said his approach is to teach technique and fundamentals, stating that, much like a student in the classroom, football players learn at different rates; there is no linear path to development. Harding knows his job is to accelerate the development of returning players.
Until the offensive line grasps a full understanding of a new blocking scheme, offensive coordinator Jason Beck will be tasked with calling plays within players’ ability in order to put the entire offense in a position to succeed. This will help reduce pressure on the tackles and ease communication, which was jumbled at times last season.
This season, with seven starting-caliber linemen, it puts the offensive line in a better position to weather any would-be injuries. For the Wolverines to extend drives and help the defense out, the offensive tackles must be better.
There is a lot of optimism that, as fall camp draws closer, the tackles will be better, both because of coaching and because players have a season under their belts, including those who were pressed into service. Much like the linebackers, many eyes will be on the offensive line with a focus on the tackles during fall camp.
