'I think we can get another natty': Michigan DT Rayshaun Benny explains decision to return, change jersey number
Michigan Wolverines football defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny decided to return for his fifth season in the program, and he’s slated to be one of the top leaders and players on the defense in 2025.
The 6-foot-4, 296-pound Detroit native was a backup last season even while producing at a high level, playing behind Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, two projected first-round NFL Draft picks. The Wolverines didn’t have the season they wanted, finishing 8-5, and Benny believes he can be a part of a turnaround.
“There’s more on the table for me,” he said of his decision to return. “I think we can get another natty. The team looked good, so I wanted to run it back with my guys.”
Benny said he has high expectations for himself and the team.
“That’s my whole goal this year is just to lead, show the young guys who weren’t here to see the four-year run we have, show them what it’s about,” the Michigan standout said. “It’s really a new team, so just instilling in them the culture that was instilled in me.
“Just the focus that comes with being here. The legacy that comes with being here. The expectations. We’re expected to win. It’s a historic university. We’ve been winning for a while. Just trying to keep that up.”
Benny, who made 29 tackles with 3.5 for loss and 1.5 sacks in 2024, was one of the players who earned a starting nod in the 19-13 win over Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Graham, Grant and others decided not to play in the last game of the season, and others benefitted in a winning effort.
“That’s very important,” Benny said. “I think it gave some of the younger guys who didn’t have quite the opportunity that I had to play as much last year. I think it gave them a big confidence boost and set the tone for next season. Real happy with how we ended, so just looking forward to how the guys keep developing.”
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Benny is expecting an increase in workload this coming season, even though he believes Michigan has a lot of talent on the defensive line.
“I’m definitely expecting that,” he noted. “I like how deep we are, so I don’t know; we’ll see how that plays out. This year reminds me actually of the ‘23 year with how deep we are on the D-line. I got high expectations for this year.”
Benny switched his jersey number from 26 to 55. Graham sported 55 the previous three seasons, and defensive end Brandon Graham, who played in the 2000s, is also a legend who donned those digits. Benny is next up, though that was his jersey number growing up, including in high school.
“That was my high school number,” Benny said. Not for sure on it, though. But definitely looking forward to it. Just want to live up with it.
“For me, it was personal because the whole time I played football, I had that number. Then I came here and switched it up. Then it just felt kinda good getting back into it. It felt like I was back to my roots.
“The number here is legendary. You know who’s been here.”
