Hey there, fellow Wolverine fans! Gather ’round as we unpack the latest installment of the Michigan football saga, now that the transfer portal gates have clanged shut for the season. So, picture this: the Maize and Blue vibes are strong, especially when you remember that just a year ago, we were basking in the glow of a national championship.
Our head coach, Sherrone Moore, has been on a bit of a talent shopping spree this winter and spring, looking to replenish our ranks after a bunch of our stars headed to the NFL. It’s like trying to replace a rock star with a lineup of fierce new talent. Not an easy gig, especially with Judge Claudia Wilken’s decision on scholarship limits hanging in legal limbo. But hey, the outlook is sunny! We’ve got depth, and we might just be more talented than last season. Let’s break it down.
First up, who’s joining the fold? We’ve snagged some serious players via the portal. Like the Metcalf brothers from Arkansas—TJ and Tevis, who looked sharp in the spring game. Then you’ve got Louisiana’s Caleb Anderson adding some magic to our cornerbacks, and Damon Payne Jr. alongside Tre Williams beefing up the defensive line. Toss in Georgia’s Troy Bowles, promising Oregon roots turned Wolverine linebacker, and UCLA’s long snapper Trent Middleton. If that wasn’t enough, check out Mikey Keene from Fresno State, who’s going to stir some QB pot with Bryce Underwood and Jadyn Davis. Say it with me folks: COMPETITION!
But wait, there’s more. Justice Haynes from Alabama is here to team up with Jordan Marshall, forming one of the coolest running back duos in college ball. Brady Norton’s in the mix for starting left tackle – something to keep your eyes on. Wideout Donaven McCulley, fresh from Indiana with a hefty record, is a real upgrade in our receiver lineup.
Want to Learn More About Transferring?
Checkout our Guide to the Football Transfer Portal
Now, speaking of bright-eyed newbies, let’s not forget this freshman class. Bryce Underwood, what a star he could become. Our offensive line is further fortified with Andrew Babalola, Ty Haywood, and Kaden Strayhorn leading the charge. This squad is ready to shake things up in Ann Arbor once they hit the ground running for fall camp.
Now, with all this gain, there’s gotta be some pain, right? Here are some names you’ll miss: cornerback Kody Jones, defensive lineman Owen Wafle, edge rusher Breeon Ishmail, and more. Some of these guys were former starters who’ve moved on to potentially greener pastures—like Tyler Morris, who, despite his plans, got benched by a nasty ACL tear. Tommy Doman swapped Michigan blue for Florida sun to rediscover his old magic. They’re gone, but definitely not forgotten.
Oh, and in case you’re counting (like those number-crunchers at 247Sports and On3 do), Michigan’s transfer class is making waves even compared to rivals like Ohio State and Kentucky. Rankings can jump, but we’re all about potential here!
Quick shout out to our NFL draftees like Mason Graham now with the Cleveland Browns, and Colston Loveland repping with the Chicago Bears. Congrats, guys!
What’s next for us? Expect a summer with heated position battles. The quarterback scene is set for a suspenseful saga. Left tackle and right guard are open slots for now, more drama there. And don’t take your eyes off the secondary—who’s starting at corner and safety will be a story to watch.
Our roster might still see some shifts, particularly with wide receivers. Remember, the transfer portal only closes for entries; existing portal players can still join our ranks.
So, grab your seats and popcorn. This Michigan football show’s just gearing up, and trust me, you won’t want to miss what’s coming up next! Go Blue!
