Overview
- Junior Bryson Kuzdzal has withdrawn from the NCAA transfer portal and will return to Michigan for 2026, multiple outlets reported with confirmation from MLive.
- Kuzdzal’s choice followed clarity on the backfield, with Justice Haynes departing for Georgia Tech and Jordan Marshall returning as the projected lead runner.
- In 2025 Kuzdzal logged 76 carries for 326 yards and four touchdowns, highlighted by 100 yards and three scores vs. Maryland and 82 yards in the Citrus Bowl.
- Incoming transfer Taylor Tatum, the No. 1 running back recruit in 2024, will begin at safety for Michigan, with reporting noting the switch could be temporary.
- Whittingham has emphasized retention in the portal window, securing withdrawals from contributors such as Jake Guarnera, Zeke Berry, Jordan Young, Andrew Sprague and Enow Etta, while the RB room now features Marshall, Savion Hiter, Kuzdzal, Micah Ka’apana, Donovan Johnson and Jonathan Brown after departures including Jasper Parker.