Most starters return for the Michigan football team in 2016, but a select group of underclassmen have the best chance to earn a starting role.
Vacated positions include quarterback, center, each linebacker spot and free safety. Otherwise, a young talent must beat out an established player to enter the lineup. Considering the returning starters, however, that's unlikely to happen.
The list does not include returning underclassmen starters like Jabrill Peppers—who received a medical redshirt in 2014 before opening 12 games last season—or Mason Cole. To be eligible, a player must be athletically classified as a junior or lower.
Bonus: Keep an eye on Quinn Nordin to replace Blake O'Neill as the punter.