3-Star DL Ready to Shine Under Harbaugh in 2026

Rising Star in the Middle of Michigan’s Defense

Trey Pierce, a defensive tackle for the University of Michigan, has been steadily making his mark on the field. Initially recruited by former head coach Jim Harbaugh as a three-star prospect ranked No. 550 nationally, many outside Ann Arbor didn’t pay much attention to him at first. However, that is beginning to change, thanks in part to the praise from Michigan’s defensive coordinator, Jay Hill.

During an episode of the In The Trenches podcast in February, Hill made it clear that he sees great potential in Pierce. “I believe we have two of the best defensive tackles in college football right now in Enow Etta and Trey Pierce,” Hill stated. “Those guys can play. I think they’ve been very well-coached.” This kind of public endorsement is significant, especially considering that Hill’s defense is built around stopping the run, a role where Pierce excels.

Pierce has proven himself over the course of his career. He has played in 39 games and started all 13 in the 2025 season. His contributions were instrumental in Michigan’s strong run defense, which limited opponents to fewer than 112 rushing yards per game. In 2025, he recorded 30 tackles and earned an All-Big Ten honorable mention. This achievement is particularly notable given that he spent his early years behind established players like Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant, and Kris Jenkins. With those players now gone, the starting role is firmly in Pierce’s hands.

Pierce has also spoken about the changes under the new coaching staff. “Guys being late for lifts, not being where they’re supposed to be, that’s being enforced more,” he said this spring. “We’re waking up earlier, going through that grind together. It puts you in a headspace like we’ve done harder things than this.” His teammates have taken notice, and he was elected team captain for the spring. Such recognition doesn’t come to players who simply show up and go through the motions.

A Key Player in Michigan’s Defensive Strategy

Pierce’s performance in run defense has been exceptional. According to Maize n Brew, his run defense grade was the best among any returning Michigan defender in 2025, even surpassing Utah transfer Jonah Lea’ea. Additionally, he played over 400 defensive snaps during the season. The only interior lineman who graded out higher than him was Rayshaun Benny.

The depth behind Pierce is still developing. Players like Enow Etta, Manuel Biegel, Chibi Anwunah, and Deyvid Palepale are all in the process of growing into their roles, but none have yet proven they can hold down a starting position. This makes Pierce a crucial and dependable presence in the middle of Michigan’s defense.

Jay Hill recognizes this, as do his teammates and Pierce himself. With his experience, leadership, and consistent performance, it’s clear that he is a key player for the Wolverines.

As the 2026 season approaches, many are wondering if Pierce can continue to build on his success and become one of the best defensive tackles in the Big Ten. His journey so far suggests that he is well on his way.