Michigan has struggled with key injuries throughout the year and even though it looked to be closer to full strength last week at Illinois, the Wolverines lost their star player again early.
Cornerback Will Johnson left the game in Champaign in the first half and though he was lobbying to return, he never did. Head coach Sherrone Moore was hopeful during his Monday afternoon press conference, however, it remained something of a game day decision as to whether or not Johnson would be available to play against rival Michigan State on Saturday.
Will Johnson injury update
It turns out the fears were warranted as 247Sports’ Matt Zenitz indicates that Johnson will not play against the Spartans, missing yet another game this season (he also missed Minnesota in Week 5).
Michigan star cornerback Will Johnson is expected to miss today’s game against Michigan State due to injury, a source tells @CBSSports/@247Sports.
On a positive note for the Wolverines, left tackle Myles Hinton continues to look likely to play after missing the last two games.… pic.twitter.com/nLy92zK5z2
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) October 26, 2024
However, it is potentially good news that Hinton could play after missing the past two games. Jeff Persi filled in at Washington and Illinois, but with the offensive line potentially returning to full strength, that should be immediate help for Davis Warren, who is returning as the starting quarterback.
How long will Johnson be out?
It is unclear at this juncture, but given that it was a game-day decision, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him return next week against Oregon.
Cornerback depth chart
Jyaire Hill should be good to go starting opposite Johnson’s replacement. Last week, Aamir Hall stood in as Johnson’s replacement and played well. Expect to see Hall again, but the depth behind that duo is slim. Jo’Ziah Edmond, a freshman, saw considerable time against Illinois so he would likely be a rotational piece, along with Keshaun Harris.