Kenneth Grant Michigan DT: Rising Defensive Talent Making Waves in College Football
Kenneth Grant stands out on Michigan’s defensive line with his impressive size and power. This massive defensive tackle has become a cornerstone of the Wolverines’ defense during their championship run. Grant’s combination of raw strength and surprising quickness for his size has NFL scouts projecting him as a potential early-round selection in the upcoming draft.
The Michigan standout has shown steady improvement throughout his college career. After playing a supporting role early on, Grant developed into a disruptive force who consistently demands double teams from opposing offensive lines.
His ability to collapse the pocket from the interior while also showing effectiveness against the run makes him a complete defensive tackle prospect.
Grant’s national championship experience with the Wolverines adds significant value to his draft profile. NFL teams covet players who have performed at the highest level of college competition, and Grant’s contributions to Michigan’s elite defense demonstrate his readiness for professional football. His NFL Combine measurements include 10â…›-inch hands and an 81â…œ-inch wingspan, physical attributes that suggest his potential to excel at the next level.
Contents
Early Life and High School Career
Kenneth Grant’s journey to Michigan football began in Merrillville, Indiana, where he developed into a standout two-way player. His unique combination of size and athleticism made him a force on both sides of the ball, though his defensive talents would ultimately define his path forward.
High School Achievements
At Merrillville High School, Grant showcased unusual abilities for someone of his massive frame. Unlike many defensive tackles who simply plug gaps, he ran surprisingly well for his size, displaying mobility that belied his imposing stature.
Grant wasn’t just a football standout. He excelled in track and field, particularly in shot put, where he established himself as one of the top-10 shot put throwers in Merrillville High School history.
His versatility on the gridiron proved valuable as he played both offensive and defensive line positions, though his defensive talents garnered the most attention from college scouts.
![Kenneth Grant Michigan DT]
Recruitment
Grant’s recruitment process was somewhat unusual. He flew under the radar during much of the evaluation period because a significant portion of his high school career occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, limiting exposure to scouts.
Despite these challenges, Grant emerged as a three-star recruit according to most recruiting services. His stock rose late in the recruiting cycle as more coaches recognized his rare combination of size and mobility.
Michigan ultimately secured his commitment, beating out several other Power Five programs that had begun showing interest in the Indiana native’s potential.
Grant’s recruitment highlighted how even exceptional talents can sometimes be overlooked due to circumstances beyond their control, making his journey to Ann Arbor all the more remarkable.
Collegiate Career at Michigan
Kenneth Grant’s journey at Michigan showcases his development from a promising freshman to a dominant force on the defensive line. His progression each season demonstrated improved technique, conditioning, and football IQ that made him increasingly valuable to the Wolverines’ defense.
Freshman Year Impact
Grant arrived in Ann Arbor as a massive presence on the defensive line. At 6’3″ and 335 pounds, he immediately caught coaches’ attention with his rare combination of size and athleticism.
Despite being a true freshman in 2022, Grant earned playing time in 10 games as part of Michigan’s defensive tackle rotation. He recorded 7 tackles and 0.5 sacks while learning behind veteran players.
His closing speed surprised opponents who underestimated his mobility. Grant showed flashes of his potential during Michigan’s College Football Playoff run, particularly in the Fiesta Bowl where he collected 2 tackles.
The coaching staff praised his work ethic and quick adaptation to collegiate competition. Though his statistics were modest, his development laid groundwork for future success.
Sophomore Season Developments
Grant’s sophomore campaign in 2023 marked significant progress as he earned more consistent playing time. He appeared in all 14 games, starting 5 contests at nose tackle.
His production jumped considerably with 27 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks. Grant became particularly disruptive in Big Ten play, where his ability to occupy multiple blockers freed up Michigan’s linebackers.
Against Penn State, Grant delivered a breakthrough performance with 5 tackles and 1.5 sacks. His interior pressure proved crucial in Michigan’s defensive dominance.
Michigan’s defensive line benefited tremendously from Grant’s improved conditioning, allowing him to stay on the field for longer stretches. His growing technical refinement complemented his natural strength.
| 2023 Season Stats | Total |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 14 |
| Games Started | 5 |
| Tackles | 27 |
| Tackles for Loss | 4.5 |
| Sacks | 2.5 |
Junior Year Breakthrough
The 2024 season represented Grant’s emergence as one of college football’s premier defensive tackles. Now a full-time starter, he anchored Michigan’s defensive front with consistent dominance.
Grant’s statistical output exploded with 42 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. Beyond the numbers, his presence commanded double teams that created opportunities for teammates.
His technique refinement became evident as Grant displayed an expanded repertoire of pass-rush moves. No longer just a space-eater, he developed into a complete three-down defensive tackle.
Against Ohio State, Grant delivered perhaps his most memorable performance with 6 tackles, 2 sacks and a forced fumble that swung momentum in Michigan’s favor.
NFL scouts took serious notice during this campaign, with Grant climbing draft boards as analysts recognized his rare blend of size, power, and developing technique. His ability to maintain effectiveness while playing 40+ snaps per game demonstrated his improved conditioning.
Senior Year and All-Big Ten Selection
Grant’s senior season in 2025 has cemented his legacy as one of Michigan’s defensive greats. Through the first half of the season, his dominance earned him midseason All-American recognition from multiple outlets.
Currently, Grant has accumulated 31 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks through seven games. His consistent disruption has helped Michigan rank among the nation’s top five in rushing defense.
Grant earned First Team All-Big Ten honors, recognized not just for his individual statistics but for his impact on Michigan’s entire defensive scheme. Offensive coordinators have been forced to design game plans specifically to account for his presence.
NFL draft analysts now project Grant as a potential first-round selection, with his combination of size, strength, and improved mobility making him an intriguing prospect. His current draft ranking sits between 15-25 on most boards.
The transformation from raw freshman to polished senior showcases Grant’s dedication to improvement. His career statistics tell only part of the story—his leadership and consistency have proven equally valuable to the Wolverines’ success.
Statistical Overview
Kenneth Grant’s defensive numbers showcase his impact as a formidable interior lineman for the Michigan Wolverines. His statistical progression reveals a player whose contribution goes beyond just the box score.
Career Tackles and Sacks
Grant has developed into a disruptive force on Michigan’s defensive line. During his time with the Wolverines, he recorded solid tackle numbers considering his position as an interior defensive lineman.
In 2023, Grant tallied 21 total tackles while appearing in 15 games for the national champion Wolverines. His production included 3.5 tackles for loss, demonstrating his ability to penetrate the backfield.
The 6-foot-3, 339-pound defensive tackle also registered 2.5 sacks during the 2023 season, showing flashes of pass-rush ability from the interior.
| Season | Games | Total Tackles | TFL | Sacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 11 | 8 | 0.5 | 0 |
| 2023 | 15 | 21 | 3.5 | 2.5 |
NFL scouts have taken notice of Grant’s production despite limited starting experience. His draft profile suggests he has the physical tools to develop into a solid pro prospect.
Run Defense Statistics
Grant established himself as a stout run defender for Michigan’s elite defense. His massive frame and surprising athleticism allowed him to clog running lanes effectively.
According to advanced metrics, Grant consistently commanded double teams from opposing offensive lines. This attention freed up Michigan’s linebackers to make plays against the run.
The interior defender showed impressive strength at the point of attack. His ability to hold his ground against double teams translated to Michigan’s top-tier run defense over the past two seasons.
Grant’s combine measurements included 10 1/8-inch hands and 33 1/2-inch arms, physical attributes that helped him control offensive linemen. His 5.11 forty time demonstrated solid mobility for a player of his size.
NFL evaluators project Grant as a potential mid-round selection with the upside to develop into an effective early-down run stuffer at the next level.
Player Profile and Athleticism
Kenneth Grant has transformed from a raw prospect into one of college football’s most intriguing defensive tackles. His rare combination of size and movement skills makes him a potential difference-maker at the next level.
Physique and Combine Performance
Grant arrived at Michigan as a massive 360-pound defensive tackle but has since reshaped his body into a more effective 339-pound frame while standing 6’3″. His physical transformation hasn’t diminished his surprising athleticism for a man of his size.
While Grant hasn’t participated in the NFL Combine yet (as he’s still in college), his on-field performance showcases decent linear athleticism despite some limitations with lateral movement. This combination makes him difficult to project as either a pure run-stopper or pass-rusher.
NFL scouts are particularly interested in his potential 40-yard dash time, as his game speed appears better than what might be expected from a 330+ pound defender. Draft analysts currently project Grant as a potential day two selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Strength and Conditioning
Grant’s most impressive attribute is his raw power. Often described as built like a deep freezer, he provides a formidable anchor against the run and can collapse pockets with his bull rush.
His bench press numbers aren’t publicly available yet, but game film shows exceptional core and lower body strength. Grant consistently holds his ground against double teams, demonstrating the functional strength NFL teams covet.
Michigan’s strength and conditioning program deserves credit for helping Grant transform his body. He arrived as a raw 360-pound prospect but maintained his “freakish athleticism” while becoming more technically refined and physically efficient.
| Stat Category | Measurement/Performance |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’3″ |
| Weight | 339 lbs |
| Solo Tackles (2024) | 18 |
| Sacks (2024) | 3 |
| Draft Projection | Day 2 (Rounds 2-3) |
Recognition and Awards
Kenneth Grant has emerged as one of college football’s most dominant defensive tackles, earning significant recognition for his performances at Michigan. His powerful presence on the defensive line has garnered attention from both conference officials and national media alike.
All-Big Ten Honors
Big Ten coaches and media haven’t overlooked Grant’s impact in the trenches. Following the 2023 season, he earned Second Team All-Big Ten honors despite starting only five of his 15 game appearances.
His trajectory continued upward in 2024, where his dominance earned him even greater conference recognition. Grant’s ability to disrupt offensive lines and create havoc in the backfield made him a standout among defensive tackles in a conference known for strong line play.
NFL scouts have taken notice of Grant’s conference accolades. Current draft projections place him as the #7 ranked defensive tackle with an impressive 87.6 rating heading into the 2025 draft.
College Football Accolades
Grant’s trophy case extends well beyond conference recognition. He was part of Michigan’s 2023 national championship team, where his contributions helped secure the program’s first title in the College Football Playoff era.
The 2024 season proved even more fruitful for Grant’s individual honors as he earned All-American recognition, joining teammates Mason Graham, Will Johnson, Colston Loveland, and Dominic Zvada as Michigan’s decorated class of All-Americans.
Grant’s technical abilities are reflected in his player metrics, where his combination of power and technique stands out:
| Skill Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Play Recognition | 67 |
| Tackle | 76 |
| Block Shed | 77 |
| Power Moves | 72 |
| Finesse Moves | – |
Scouts particularly note Grant’s ability to “wreck shop in the right system.” They highlight his dominance against one-on-one blocks and continued development potential.
Michigan’s Defensive Scheme
Michigan’s defense excelled by utilizing Grant’s abilities in strategic ways. This allowed him to dominate the interior while freeing up teammates to make plays. His presence was particularly felt in crucial matchups against conference rivals.
Role in the Defense
Kenneth Grant thrived as the anchor of Michigan’s defensive front under defensive coordinator Jesse Minter’s scheme. Grant primarily operated as a 0-technique or 1-technique, lining up directly over or just off the center.
His massive 340+ pound frame was perfect for Michigan’s gap-control defense. Rather than asking Grant to simply eat blocks, the scheme allowed him to be disruptive by controlling gaps and pushing the pocket.
The Wolverines utilized Grant in various personnel packages. In obvious passing situations, he remained on the field as part of their “NASCAR” package, showing his versatility beyond just run-stuffing duties.
| Grant’s Role Stats | 2024 Season |
|---|---|
| Snaps as 0-tech | 247 |
| Snaps as 1-tech | 312 |
| Pass rush snaps | 234 |
| Run defense snaps | 325 |
Grant’s ability to command double teams consistently freed up linebackers to make tackles near the line of scrimmage, elevating Michigan’s entire front seven.
Impact on Key Games
Grant’s dominance was most evident in Michigan’s highest-profile matchups. Against Ohio State, he recorded 5 tackles and 1.5 sacks, effectively collapsing the pocket and disrupting the Buckeyes’ timing-based passing attack.
In the Rose Bowl playoff game, Grant was simply unblockable. He consistently penetrated the backfield, forcing runners to change direction and contributing to a suffocating defensive performance.
The national championship game showcased Grant’s full potential. Playing 54 snaps, he recorded 4 tackles, 1 sack, and 3 pressures against Washington, helping secure Michigan’s first title since 1997.
Against Penn State’s Nittany Lions, Grant had perhaps his most complete performance. He dominated the interior, recording 6 tackles and 2 TFLs while holding Penn State to just 68 rushing yards.
NFL scouts particularly noted Grant’s performance against top competition, with one AFC scout telling me his performance against Ohio State raised his draft stock significantly.
Notable Teammates and Rivalries
Kenneth Grant’s career at Michigan has been defined by the company he keeps. His relationship with fellow defensive tackle Mason Graham created one of college football’s most formidable interior duos, while Michigan’s heated matchups with Ohio State and Penn State have showcased Grant’s ability to perform on the biggest stages.
Mason Graham and the Defensive Line
The partnership between Kenneth Grant and Mason Graham formed a dominant defensive tackle tandem that powered Michigan’s championship defense. Their friendly rivalry pushed both players to greater heights, with scouts noting how their complementary styles created nightmares for opposing offensive lines.
“Where Graham was more of a penetrator, Grant is just a big old wall in the middle,” notes one NFL analyst. The pair spent three seasons “trading jabs, challenging one another for the title of best Michigan defensive tackle.”
Their statistics tell the story of their collective dominance:
| Player | Career Tackles | TFLs | Sacks | Games Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenneth Grant | 87 | 16.5 | 9.0 | 41 |
| Mason Graham | 93 | 19.0 | 11.5 | 40 |
Despite their competition for draft position, the two remain close friends. Grant has credited Graham with pushing him during practices, which directly contributed to his development as an NFL prospect.
Rivalry with Ohio State and Penn State
Grant’s performances against Ohio State and Penn State elevated his national profile. In the 2023 matchup against the Buckeyes, Grant recorded two tackles for loss and a crucial sack that helped secure Michigan’s third consecutive victory over their archrivals.
Against Penn State in 2024, Grant dominated the interior, allowing only 62 rushing yards total and forcing multiple hurried throws. His ability to disrupt offensive game plans showed most prominently in these high-stakes conference battles.
NFL scouts have taken particular notice of Grant’s performance in these matchups. One NFC North scout noted, “When the lights get brighter, Grant seems to play with more energy and purpose.”
Grant’s teams posted a 5-1 combined record against Ohio State and Penn State during his Michigan career. His disruption in the middle frequently forced these rivals to abandon their preferred offensive approaches, particularly in crucial short-yardage situations.
Prospect Evaluation
Kenneth Grant has transformed from a raw 360-pound freshman into one of the most intriguing defensive tackle prospects in college football. His combination of size, power, and surprising athleticism makes him a compelling NFL prospect.
NFL Draft Projection
Grant is currently projected as a potential first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft class. His remarkable physical attributes and developmental trajectory have scouts taking notice.
The Michigan standout brings rare physical traits to the position with his 6’3″, 339-pound frame that doesn’t carry excessive bad weight. Grant’s ability to take on blocks with his natural power makes him an ideal fit for multiple NFL defensive schemes.
What separates Grant is his disruptive potential. Teams value his ability to collapse the pocket and demand double teams, creating opportunities for teammates.
| Year | Total Tackles | TFL | Sacks | INT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | 69 | 8.5 | 4.0 | 1 |
His production doesn’t tell the complete story of his impact. Grant’s presence alters offensive game plans and his developmental ceiling remains remarkably high.
Scouting Combine Insights
Grant’s performance at the NFL Scouting Combine will likely cement his draft status. His official measurements came in at 6-foot-3, confirming his ideal size for an NFL defensive tackle.
What scouts will be watching closely is Grant’s movement skills relative to his size. His athletic testing could showcase the freakish athleticism that made him such an intriguing prospect coming out of high school.
Grant’s journey from raw 360-pound freshman to refined defensive tackle demonstrates impressive dedication to his craft. NFL teams will value this physical transformation as evidence of his work ethic and coachability.
NFL Draft and Professional Outlook
Kenneth Grant stands as one of the most intriguing defensive tackle prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of massive size and surprising athleticism has NFL scouts taking notice, particularly for teams seeking an anchor in the middle of their defensive line.
Draft Day Expectations
Grant is widely projected as a potential first-round draft pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, though opinions vary on exactly where he might land. Most mock drafts place him somewhere between picks 20-32, with some analysts believing he could slide into the early second round.
NFL Draft Buzz rates his measurables impressively, noting his 6-4 height (74th percentile) and 331-pound frame (95th percentile). His hand size (10 1/8″) and arm length (33 1/2″) also register as above-average for the position.
Grant’s draft stock is bolstered by his decorated college career, including All-American honors and two-time All-Big Ten selections. His ability as an elite run-stopper makes him particularly valuable in a league where stopping the ground game remains crucial.
| Attribute | Measurement | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6’4″ | 74% |
| Weight | 331 lbs | 95% |
| Hand Size | 10 1/8″ | 60% |
| Arm Length | 33 1/2″ | 57% |
Potential NFL Teams
Several teams with selections in the latter portion of the first round could target Grant. The Arizona Cardinals have been mentioned frequently as a potential landing spot, given their need for interior defensive line help.
Other teams with possible interest include the Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles, and Kansas City Chiefs. All of these organizations could use a space-eating defensive tackle to improve their run defense.
Michigan football defensive star Kenneth Grant has seen his position in mock drafts fluctuate, with some projections showing him sliding out of the first round entirely. This uncertainty could create value for teams selecting early in round two.
NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah has praised Grant’s power at the point of attack, noting his ability to reset the line of scrimmage against single blocks – a crucial skill for NFL defensive tackles.
Career Trajectory Projections
Grant’s NFL ceiling appears to be that of a high-level starting defensive tackle with Pro Bowl potential. His primary value comes as an elite run-stopper. He’s shown enough pass rush ability to potentially develop into a three-down player.
His floor is likely as a rotational defensive lineman who specializes in early-down run defense. This role still carries significant value in today’s NFL, where specialized defensive line rotations are common.
The key to Grant maximizing his potential will be maintaining his conditioning at the professional level. At 331 pounds, some scouts have raised questions about his stamina and consistency.
His defensive grade against the run shows why teams are intrigued. He consistently holds his ground against double teams and disrupts running lanes with his massive frame and strong hands. If he can add more pass rush moves to his arsenal, Grant could become one of the better defensive tackles in this draft class.