Fall camp Michigan football position battle for the coveted No. 1 jersey

The No. 1 jersey holds great significance in the history of the Wolverines’ program, being one of the most coveted numbers. In the past, legendary players like Anthony Carter, Braylon Edwards, and others have proudly worn the No. 1 jersey, leading their team to greatness, including Big Ten titles and more. Fall camp has commenced in Ann Arbor this week for the Maize and Blue, and there already appears to be a Michigan football position battle for this iconic number ahead of the upcoming season — cornerbacks Amorion Walker and Ja’Den McBurrows are currently listed at No. 1.

Fall camp Michigan football position battle between Amorion Walker and Ja’Den McBurrows will likely be for the coveted No. 1 jersey

In college football, multiple players can wear the same number, but they cannot be on the field at the same time. This means that players with the same number often play on opposite sides of the football. For example, during the 2016 season, Wilton Speight (QB), Quinn Nordin (K), and Rashan Gary (DE) all wore the No. 3 without any issues.

However, there is an opposite situation in Ann Arbor right now — an issue that will likely lead to a number change by the end of the Wolverines’ fall camp. Currently, cornerbacks Amorion Walker and Ja’Den McBurrows are wearing No. 1, indicating that the loser of this position battle will have to change numbers heading into the new season, while the winner will get to keep the coveted No. 1 jersey.

Based on spring ball reports and more, it appears that newly converted cornerback Amorion Walker is poised to win this battle. He has displayed impressive athletic ability since transitioning from wide receiver to defensive back during spring ball. However, McBurrows brings more experience and has been patiently waiting for his chance to prove himself for some time now. This battle should be a good one for the Maize and Blue as the 2023 season draws near.