The Greatest Michigan Wolverines Players of All Time

Facts verified July 2026.

Who is the greatest Michigan Wolverines player of all time?

By the measure of championships, individual honors, and lasting impact, Charles Woodson tops most all-time Michigan Wolverines rankings. The full top 5 follows.

1. Charles Woodson CB \u00b7 1995–1997

   The only primarily defensive player to win the Heisman Trophy, Woodson led Michigan to the 1997 national title with dominant two-way play. A shutdown corner with game-changing ability as a returner and occasional receiver, he went on to a Hall of Fame NFL career. The defining Wolverine of the modern era.

2. Tom Harmon HB \u00b7 1938–1940

   'Old 98' won the 1940 Heisman Trophy and was one of the greatest all-around players of the pre-war era — a runner, passer, kicker, and defender. His No. 98 is retired, and he remains one of the towering figures in the program's storied history.

3. Desmond Howard WR \u00b7 1989–1991

   The 1991 Heisman winner, Howard was an explosive receiver and returner whose 'Heisman pose' after a punt return touchdown against Ohio State became an iconic image. His dynamic playmaking made him one of the most exciting Wolverines ever.

4. Tom Brady QB \u00b7 1996–1999

   Before becoming the greatest quarterback in NFL history, Brady battled for the starting job at Michigan and led the Wolverines to memorable comeback wins, including the 2000 Orange Bowl. His college perseverance foreshadowed the legendary career to come.

5. Braylon Edwards WR \u00b7 2001–2004

   The program's all-time leading receiver, Edwards was a consensus All-American whose acrobatic catches — including a legendary comeback against Michigan State in triple overtime in 2004 — make him one of the great playmakers in Michigan history.

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