STATE COLLEGE, PA - NOVEMBER 11: Rod Moore #9 of the Michigan Wolverines looks on before the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium on November 11, 2023 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty ImagesTwo veteran defensive players who are recovering from injuries are on the track to play in Michigans season opener versus Western Michigan on Sept. 6 defensive end John Henry Daley and safety Rod Moore.Moore has played in just three games since the start of the 2024 season due to a torn ACL and lingering knee issues that required multiple surgeries. Henry Daley, a Utah transfer, had 11.5 sacks and two forced fumbles last season before rupturing his achilles in November. Michigan defensive coordinator Jay Hill spoke about the progress that Moore and Daley have made, saying he hopes that theyre ready for week one following a strong first practice of fall camp. Hill noted that all players coming back from an injury are on a pitch count at the start of camp, but it sounds as if Moore and Daley both stood out when they did take snaps. Hill on Moore: It was pretty fun to see Rod Moore out there again today. I think it was his third play, and he got an interception, so hopefully thats a phenomenal trend for him. He stood out.Hill on Daley: Hes coming off a very intense rehab, and thats a tough injury. Hes about as far along in this progression as Ive ever seen anybody with this injury, which is a tribute to John and how he works and the toughness he has.Were going to have him on the field. The way he looked and moved today, were going to have him on the field. And hes going to help us.Michigan posted a video of Moores interception in practice. Moore had a game-sealing interception versus Ohio State in 2023, and it sounds like he still has some big plays in him at Michigan. An immediate presence pic.twitter.com/aJjkSuIwdv Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) August 5, 2026