Michigan expected to hire Lionel Stokes as defensive analyst, per report

The Michigan Wolverines football program is set to make another hire. According to Matt Zenitz, the Wolverines and head coach Sherrone Moore are expected to hire Lionel Stokes as a defensive analyst for the program.

Stokes is familiar with newly hired Michigan defensive backs coach LaMar Morgan, as the two worked together at Louisiana as safety on their roster. However, that is not the extent of what makes him a solid pickup for Michigan. Stokes has also been a defensive back coach at Jackson and Nicholls University and was a one-time defensive coordinator for the Jackson State Tigers.

Michigan DB Quinten Johnson to return for 2024 season

On Tuesday, Michigan cornerback Quinten Johnson announced he will forgo the NFL Draft and return to the program for a sixth season.

“After heavy consideration of the current status of an injury suffered late in last year’s national championship run, I have decided to forgo the NFL and return to the University of Michigan for one more year,” Johnson wrote. “With that being said it’s time to win another National Championship!”

Johnson appeared in all 15 games this past season for Michigan in a special teams role and as a defensive back in 14 contests, making 22 tackles and one interception with five passes defended and a forced fumble this season.

Johnson initially declared for the 2024 NFL Draft on Feb. 2. In his statement, he thanked everyone who helped mold him during his time in Ann Arbor.

“I am so grateful to the University of Michigan faculty and staff for the unforgettable years that have shaped me in ways I could never have imagined,” Johnson wrote. “I was blessed to experience the unparalleled joy of playing in front of the best fan base in the nation while obtaining a degree at ‘the best university in the world.’

“It has been my greatest honor to wear the winged helmet, the Michigan jersey, and to play for a community that bleeds maize and blue. To my fellow teammates, our brotherhood has been the biggest blessing of my college experience. Together, we’ve weathered challenges, celebrated victories, and created memories that will forever be etched in the tapestry of my life.”