The Players Set to Leave
Michigan’s coaching staff has compiled a list of the transfers it expects to miss most in the 2026 season, ranking them by the potential impact on the team’s depth and on‑field performance.
At the top of that list is Cole Sullivan, whose presence as a linebacker last year made him the most impactful player among the departures. Sullivan will also line up against Michigan in Week 2 as a member of the Oklahoma squad, adding a narrative subplot to the schedule.
Elijah Dotson, a freshman who earned meaningful snaps at both nickel and boundary positions, represents a moderate but tangible loss, especially given his versatility on defense.
Justice Haynes, widely regarded as the most talented player to transfer out of Michigan this offseason, carried Heisman aspirations before injuries derailed his season, leaving a void at a key offensive position.
Beyond these headline names, the cumulative effect of these exits will test the Wolverines’ depth at several critical spots, forcing younger players to step into larger roles.
The ripple extends beyond the field, influencing recruiting narratives and the program’s momentum as it heads into the next cycle.