Michigan wolverine would’ve let him leave Tee Higgins accept a deal of $35.9 million today

J.J. McCarthy Justin Casterline

Projecting Who’s Staying and Who’s Leaving from Michigan After Bowl Game
DAVID KENYON

Two years of College Football Playoff disappointments have given way to a memorable celebration for Michigan.

First, the Wolverines edged Alabama 27-20 in a thrilling overtime game at the Rose Bowl. Monday night, they capped a 15-0 campaign with a 34-13 triumph over Washington to win the national championship.

Michigan, for the first time in 26 fascinating seasons, is standing atop the college football world.

But the offseason starts now. The main story is whether head coach Jim Harbaugh returns to Ann Arbor or accepts an NFL job. That eventual decision could have a massive impact on the look of Michigan’s team in 2024.

The following sections—who’s staying, leaving and on the way—are a mix of projections and reported/confirmed plans.

Any ranking is subjective, but Colston Loveland should have a compelling argument as the best of his position in 2024. During the regular season, he caught 40 passes for 572 yards—a strong 14.3-yard average—and four touchdowns, earning first-team All-Big Ten honors from the league’s coaches.

Key Third-Year Defenders

Loveland joined U-M as part of the 2022 class, a recruiting cycle in which the coaching staff nailed some defensive evaluations. Elite corner Will Johnson has played up to his 5-star billing, while linemen Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, edge-rusher Derrick Moore and safety Keon Sabb are all significant contributors. Throw in linebacker Ernest Hausmann, a transfer from Nebraska last offseason, and the defense has a good foundation for 2024.

Jim Harbaugh, Maybe

At this point, it feels inevitable that Jim Harbaugh will eventually return to the NFL. He has a great situation in Ann Arbor, and it seems evident he’s desiring to scratch that Super Bowl itch—provided the right opportunity comes along. Could that be the Los Angeles Chargers? Would the Chicago Bears make a move despite their late winning streak to hire their former QB? We’ll find out soon.

Who’s Leaving
J.J. McCarthy and Blake Corum Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images
J.J. McCarthy, Most Likely

No decision will affect Michigan’s roster as much as the impending choice for quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Will he enter the 2024 NFL draft or return for his senior year? Also, is that verdict tied to Harbaugh’s future? McCarthy is not viewed as an elite-tier prospect but would likely be a first-round selection, and that is—in my opinion, which certainly may be wrong—enough for him to chase the pros.

Offense, Offense, Offense

Regardless of McCarthy’s pick, the Wolverines may need to overhaul the rest of the offense. Running back Blake Corum, wideout Roman Wilson and offensive linemen Zak Zinter, Trevor Keegan, Karsen Barnhart and Drake Nugent all could declare for the draft. Wide receiver Cornelius Johnson and left tackle LaDarius Henderson are out of eligibility, and tight end AJ Barner may leave, too.

Defense, Defense, Defense

Although the Wolverines have a sturdy returning group, the defense is headed for major transition as well. Defensive lineman Kris Jenkins, edge-rushers Jaylen Harrell and Braiden McGregor, linebacker Junior Colson and safeties Rod Moore and Makari Paige all have NFL futures. Defensive tackle Cam Goode, linebacker Michael Barrett and nickelback Mike Sainristil have used up their eligibility.

Who’s on the Way
Jaishawn Barham G Fiume/Getty Images
Transfers, As Usual

Michigan has done a great job lately of identifying impact transfers. To this point, the Wolverines have added Northwestern left guard Josh Priebe and Maryland linebacker Jaishawn Barham. Both of them may immediately earn starting jobs.

The QB of the Future

That’s the plan, at least. Michigan signed 4-star Jadyn Davis, a dual-threat prospect ranked 93rd nationally. He’s headed to Ann Arbor alongside 3-star receiver and high school teammate Channing Goodwin.

Top-15 Recruiting Class
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Offensive players are the prizes of a well-rounded haul on the trail for the Wolverines, who assembled the nation’s No. 15 haul. Running back Jordan Marshall (83rd), Davis, offensive lineman Andrew Sprague (111th), tight end Brady Prieskorn (123rd) and lineman Blake Frazier (168th) are Michigan’s top-ranked signees.