Michigan has officially enhanced its passing game by signing UMass transfer wide receiver Anthony Simpson. As pass-catchers remain a significant offseason focus, the Wolverines are enhancing their receiving unit with first-year offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey.
Simpson, a wide receiver standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 180 pounds, adds experience and playmaking skills to Ann Arbor. Initially part of Arizona’s 2021 recruiting class, he played two seasons with the Wildcats before moving to UMass, where he had a standout year in 2023 with 57 receptions for 792 yards and three touchdowns. During that season, he played for Steve Casula, who was the offensive coordinator at UMass and is now the tight ends coach at Michigan.
Despite being restricted to only two games in 2024 due to an injury, Simpson’s demonstrated skill in stretching the field and generating separation makes him a fascinating late addition to Michigan’s offense. With just one season of eligibility left, he’s aiming to finish his college career on a positive note in Ann Arbor.
Simpson is the second wide receiver Michigan has acquired from the portal this offseason, joining ex-Indiana star Donaven McCulley. A former quarterback, McCulley offers exceptional size (6-foot-5) and athleticism at the position, providing Michigan with a genuine red-zone threat.
As the Wolverines accumulate experienced pass-catchers, they’re simultaneously preparing for the future with a strong recruiting class for 2025. Wide receivers coach Ron Bellamy has already obtained commitments from four-star prospects Andrew Marsh and Jacob Washington, along with three-star speedster Jamar Browder.
Michigan’s recent track record at the position has been inconsistent, emphasizing strong, blocking-oriented receivers like Cornelius Johnson and Roman Wilson within their ground-focused system. Nevertheless, as the Wolverines shift to Lindsey’s more diversified offensive strategy, anticipate a stronger focus on agile route-runners and deep playmakers.
Simpson’s adaptability is expected to enable him to have a quick effect, particularly in a group that experienced considerable changes after the exits of Wilson and Johnson. Whether he stands out as a primary target or acts as a dependable rotational player, his knowledge of Casula and background in various offensive systems should facilitate his adjustment.
As Michigan aims to enhance its passing game, the inclusion of Simpson, alongside McCulley and a promising group of young players, indicates a move towards a more dynamic aerial offense in 2025.
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