3 positions the Michigan Wolverines could target in the transfer portal
The Michigan Wolverines were one of the biggest disappointments of the 2024 college football season. Entering the year as defending national champions after a perfect 15-0 season — their first since 1997 — they were ranked ninth in the preseason AP Top 25 poll. That marked the lowest ranking for a defending national champion since Auburn began the 2011 season at No. 23.
Expectations for Michigan were tempered following head coach Jim Harbaugh’s departure to the NFL, along with much of his staff. The Wolverines also lost 13 players to the 2024 NFL draft — the fourth-most by one program in a single draft since it was reduced to seven rounds in 1994.
Despite these setbacks, Michigan’s 2024 campaign fell well below expectations. They finished the regular season with a 7-5 record, including a 5-4 mark in Big Ten play — their worst full-season performance since 2014.
Looking to rebound, the Wolverines are expected to rely on the transfer portal to help rebuild their program. Here are three key positions Michigan could target this offseason.
3 positions the Michigan Wolverines could target in the transfer portal
#1. Quarterback
It is no secret that the Michigan Wolverines will be in the market for a quarterback this offseason. They flipped the commitment of Bryce Underwood, a five-star prospect and the top-ranked recruit in the 2021 class. The Wolverines’ plan reportedly involves him sitting for a year behind an established quarterback.
Michigan's offense averaged just 133.6 passing yards per game, the fifth-fewest in the nation. Their 22.3 points per game were tied for the 23rd-fewest in the nation. Look for the Wolverines to target a transfer quarterback to turn around their struggling passing game.
#2. Running back
The Michigan Wolverines expected their rushing attack to carry the load in 2024. They averaged 160.7 rushing yards per game, ranking 69th in the nation. While that mark wasn’t terrible, it was much worse than expected. Their two leading rushers, Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards, are both out of eligibility following the 2024 season.
Among running backs with eligibility remaining, Benjamin Hall led the team with 13 carries and 44 rushing yards. Sherrone Moore's squad will likely look to target at least one running back via the transfer portal.
#3. Wide receiver
The Michigan Wolverines' struggles in the passing game were not solely due to poor quarterback play. They received minimal production from the wide receiver position, as tight end Colston Loveland led the team in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns.
Tyler Morris led the Wolverines' wide receivers in each category, with just 23 receptions for 248 yards and two touchdowns. He has announced his intention to enter the transfer portal, creating an even larger hole at a position of need.