Despite playing a role that was limited to mainly special teams as a freshman in 2024, Michigan Wolverines linebacker Cole Sullivan is expected to contribute more on defense this season. The coaching staff has praised his development this fall camp, saying he has made major strides since last year and is now firmly in the defensive rotation.
“Cole Sullivan is a guy that continues to climb and continues to make an impact,” head coach Sherrone Moore told the media last week. “He was a guy that people
weren’t talking about. He’s a younger guy but has really stood out. He’s very multiple and does different things. I think from a defensive perspective, Cole is a guy that’s really jumped out to me.”
Sullivan is in line to potentially make a meaningful impact on a defense that is already loaded with talent — specifically at the linebacker position. With Ernest Hausmann, Jaishawn Barham and Jimmy Rolder all back for another season, the Wolverines have a ton of depth in the room, and Sullivan reinforces that.
His surge into the rotation could allow the Wolverines to use Barham as an edge rusher more frequently, creating unique looks that should confuse opposing offenses. Sullivan’s combination of athleticism, football IQ, versatility and physicality have stood out this offseason, and coaches have noted his consistency and growth this fall camp.
Michigan linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary explained how Sullivan could fit into the rotation in 2025.
“We want the guys to play every play like it’s their last snap, and if they’re playing that way, we know that they’re going to get fatigued,” Jean-Mary said. “If they’re going to do that, we want to keep them fresh, so the next guy has to be ready to play at any moment, and Cole is earning the snaps. He’s one of our higher level guys, so we’re going to find a way to get him into the game.”
Sullivan appeared in 12 games last season, primarily playing on special teams, where his consistency and effort earned him the Special Teams Rookie of the Year honors. Even though his statistical output was modest — recording four total tackles — coaches and teammates have taken notice of Sullivan’s work ethic and rapid improvement, and his dedication has paid off.
From being a special teams standout as a freshman to developing into a potential defensive playmaker this offseason, Sullivan’s growth should translate to production on game days. With the regular season less than two weeks away, the 6-foot-3, 230-pounder appears ready to take the next step and become a legitimate contributor on Michigan’s defense.
