The Michigan Wolverines wide receiver room will look a lot different in 2025. After what was one of the worst offensive seasons throwing the ball in the modern era of the program, Sherrone Moore went out and did about everything he could to make significant changes by adding talent from the transfer portal.
That includes Anthony Simpson from UMass. With ties to Michigan tight ends coach and co-offensive coordinator Steve Casula at both of their previous stops, Simpson could be a name to watch as the Wolverines
shuffle around their offense.
The story so far
Simpson committed to Michigan back in January, marking this his third collegiate stop. He began his career with the Arizona Wildcats, where he was a returner for two seasons before transferring to UMass.
The 2023 season was Simpson’s best. With Casula as his offensive coordinator, Simpson was the Minutemen’s leading receiver with 57 catches for 901 yards and three touchdowns. Almost all those snaps came out of the slot, and he was targeted a team-high 97 times.
But last year, Simpson had a tumultuous season in the end of former Michigan defensive coordinator Don Brown’s tenure as head coach. He played in just two games, tallying three catches for 16 yards, leaving the Week 2 game with a lower body injury. Later that week, UMass made the announcement he was no longer with the football program. According to Fight Massachusetts, Simpson was dismissed due to an incident involving one of UMass’ assistant coaches.
Outlook for 2025
Simpson’s style contradicts much of the need Moore has mentioned — bigger bodied wideouts — this offseason. But there is plenty of competition in the slot, as Simpson will fight with Fred Moore and Semaj Morgan for playing time. Morgan has reportedly performed well this fall camp, so my guess is that Simpson will be a rotational guy off the bench.
His experience has him deserving of an opportunity, but existing talent in the room may limit his effectiveness. Taking advantage of his snaps will be extremely important for Simpson to earn a larger role.
