It's pretty clear that the bulk of Michigan's talent, especially on defense, can be found in the younger classes.
As redshirt freshmen and sophomore fill more spots on the two-deep, older players are being phased out. Not surprisingly, two of them are leaving the program in safety Marvin Robinson and linebacker Mike Jones, both seniors. Robinson and Jones had been reserves throughout their careers. Robinson had been in the mix this spring to replace safety Jordan Kovacs in the starting lineup, but all indications suggest the job will go to sophomore Jarrod Wilson, who impressed returning starter Thomas Gordon in spring practice.
Robinson appeared in 28 games, starting one in 2011, and recorded 21 tackles and a fumble recovery. Jones appeared in 29 career games, mostly on special teams, and recorded eight tackles.
Their exits bring Michigan's offseason departure total to eight, which, to be honest, is a little on the high side. Linebacker Kaleb Ringer left the program last week. None of the departing players figured to contend for starting jobs.
As WolverineNation's Mike Rothstein points out, Robinson's departure means only 10 players remain from the 2010 recruiting class, Rich Rodriguez's last as Wolverines coach. RecruitingNation ranked Michigan's 2010 class 10th nationally.
Although Robinson's exit hurts Michigan's numbers at safety, the Wolverines are building greater depth throughout the defense with younger players.
