Michigan edge rusher Tariq Boney has been named among ESPN’s top 25 freshmen after his strong start to the 2023 season. Despite arriving without the fanfare of some of Michigan’s other high-profile recruits, Boney’s performance on the field has earned him national recognition.
Boney, a four-star recruit according to ESPN, began his college career ranked near the bottom of Michigan’s 2026 class. Unlike running back Savion Hiter, edge rusher Carter Meadows, and wide receiver Salesi Moa—each five-star recruits with significant hype—Boney’s recruiting profile was more modest. Composite rankings on 247Sports and On3 reflected him as a four-star, but most services listed him as a three-star, placing him near the lower end of the Wolverines’ incoming class.
After five weeks of play, ESPN included Boney on its list of the 25 best freshmen nationally, surpassing all other Michigan freshmen, including those with higher recruiting profiles. Boney has made a visible impact on Michigan’s defense, recording two sacks—one against UTEP and another versus Iowa. He also has 2.5 tackles for loss, the only freshman on defense to register numbers in those categories so far.
Boney’s pass-rushing efficiency has drawn attention beyond traditional stats. Pro Football Focus ranks him as the 41st-best edge rusher this season, with an 83.5 pass-rush grade. This suggests he has been effective at pressuring quarterbacks despite Michigan’s overall struggles this year.
The Wolverines have not lived up to expectations in 2023, but Boney’s emergence has provided a positive note for the team’s defense. His standout showing at last year’s Under Armour All-America game had hinted at his potential, and he has translated that promise into tangible results on the field.
While Michigan’s other touted freshmen have yet to make a similar impact, Boney’s early contributions have positioned him as a player to watch moving forward. ESPN’s recognition highlights how his work has set him apart from his peers nationwide.
Boney’s two sacks and tackles for loss remain the only significant freshman defensive stats for Michigan this season, underscoring his unique role in the lineup. As the season progresses, his continued development will be closely monitored.
According to Yahoo Sports.