Michigan’s football program has released a projected depth chart for the 2026 season, outlining the expected starters and key backups across the offense. The document serves as a early snapshot of how the Wolverines plan to build on last year’s successes and address the gaps that emerged during the offseason.
Quarterback Landscape
Bryce Underwood is listed as the starting quarterback, giving the team a clear leader under center heading into the new campaign. Behind him, true freshman Tommy Carr has surged up the depth chart and is now the favorite to serve as the primary backup, a development that adds depth and experience to the position.
Carr’s rapid ascent reflects the coaching staff’s confidence in his arm talent and poise, despite his rookie status. The competition at quarterback will be one of the most watched storylines during fall camp, as the team evaluates how quickly the freshman can adapt to Big Ten defenses.
Running Backs and Depth
Jordan Marshall anchors the running back corps as the projected starter, having posted 932 yards and ten touchdowns in his sophomore season. Complementing him is Savion Hiter, a dynamic playmaker who has impressed with his speed, power and ability to catch passes out of the backfield, leading the staff to earmark a shared role for the two.
Bryson Kuzdzal rounds out the group as the third option, having earned valuable snaps in spot duty last year and showing the versatility to handle goal‑line and short‑yardage situations. The depth at running back gives the Wolverines multiple threats to exploit in the ground game.
Wide Receiver and Tight End Dynamics
At wide receiver, sophomores Andrew Marsh and J.J. Buchanan are slated to start, forming a duo that brings both size and route‑running precision. Transfer Jaime Ffrench, who arrived from Utah, is expected to claim the third spot, potentially seeing more snaps than the true freshmen Salesi Moa and Travis Johnson, who are still developing.
The tight end position will feature a rotation, with Zack Marshall listed as the starter. Freshman Hogan Hansen, who missed much of the previous season due to injury, is viewed as a wildcard who could contribute if he stays healthy. Additionally, late enrollee Mason Bonner is projected to take on a larger role as the season progresses.
Offensive Line Battles
The offensive line battle is highlighted as a key storyline, especially at left tackle where Blake Frazier and Andrew Babalola are competing for the starting role. Babalola, now fully recovered from a knee injury that sidelined him as a freshman, is considered one of the top five linemen on the roster.
At right guard, Nathan Efobi is favored over Brady Norton, giving the staff a clear hierarchy as they head into fall camp. The line also includes a potential sixth offensive lineman in true freshman Malakai Lee, whose 6‑foot‑7, 349‑pound frame could provide a unique presence in specific packages.
Injury updates add another layer of intrigue: Micah Ka’apana was ruled out for the season after sustaining a leg injury in the spring, while the health of several key players will be monitored closely throughout preseason workouts.