Bold prediction season is here: the players who choose to stay and those who head to the NFL Draft will define Michigan football’s near future, especially as the team wraps the regular season with the Citrus Bowl against Texas. With several veterans and rising stars eligible for April’s draft, the landscape for 2026 Michigan begins to take shape. Here's a clear, expanded view of who might stay in Ann Arbor and who could depart for the NFL, plus some context to help newcomers understand the dynamics.
Staying in Ann Arbor
- S T.J. Metcalf
- CB Zeke Berry
- S Jaden Mangham
- DE Cameron Brandt
- DT Trey Pierce
- S Brandyn Hillman
- CB Jyaire Hill
- QB Mikey Keene (with medical redshirt)
These players aren’t surprises as potential returnees. The main takeaway is how the 2026 secondary could become the team’s backbone. Michigan’s defensive backfield is poised to be a strength, provided players maximize their development and chemistry.
Jyaire Hill had drawn some early chatter as a potential first-round pick last offseason. This season didn’t match that buzz, but the overall package remains intriguing. Hill has the size and playmaking ability to attract attention; the challenge is refining technique and consistency so evaluators see a clear, rapid path to the pros.
Zeke Berry performed at a higher level down the stretch and showcased versatility, including inside alignment. That flexibility is appealing for NFL scouts. Still, one more season to define his role and prove consistency could elevate his draft stock significantly.
Brandyn Hillman stands out as a dynamic, aggressive presence in the secondary. His physical style helps in run support and ball disruption, but the aggressive play can yield costly mistakes and occasional lapses in tackling technique. If he channels that energy with improved decision-making, he could emerge as a standout in a 2026 secondary.
Mikey Keene remains an interesting case. If a medical redshirt becomes a reality, he could come back to compete for the quarterback job and develop under a dedicated coaching plan. Returning could be especially valuable as Michigan searches for a quarterback coach to work with Bryce Underwood, potentially allowing Keene to contribute as a reliable backup and provide meaningful depth in select games.
Leaving the program
- RB Justice Haynes
- DB Rod Moore (with or without medical redshirt)
- LB Jimmy Rolder
- TE Marlin Klein
Two of these departures seem fairly straightforward, while the other two warrant a closer look at the surrounding roster and contingencies.
Justice Haynes should pursue the draft. Michigan likely hopes for a return, but Haynes’ current draft stock is compelling, especially in a running back class that may not be as strong as 2025. Notably, Mel Kiper ranks Haynes as a top-4 running back prospect for the 2026 class, underscoring his value despite missing portions of this season. If the Wolverines can rely on other backs like Jordan Marshall and incoming five-star Savion Hiter, plus returning options such as Bryson Kuzdzal and Jasper Parker, Haynes could realistically position himself as a Day 2 or early Day 3 pick given health and evaluation outcomes.
Rod Moore has clear NFL potential, especially as a versatile defensive back. Injuries complicate the projection; when healthy, his ball skills and instincts suggest a positive pro outlook. However, draft rankings vary—PFF places him around the 50th overall prospect in the 2026 class, while Mel Kiper’s board lists him just outside his top-10 safeties. This discrepancy reflects how much durability and long-term fit influence the decision.
Jimmy Rolder fits a similar narrative—talented and productive in a deep linebacker group. Michigan’s linebacker stock is strong, with Cole Sullivan stepping up at times and Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng earning more snaps down the stretch. Rolder could leverage a standout 2025 season (including All-Big Ten recognition) to climb higher, but the pro evaluation will hinge on athletic testing and scheme fit.
Marlin Klein’s situation adds a twist due to injury history, yet his on-field impact is undeniable. Klein earned top tight end recognition early in the 2025 season and stands at 6-foot-6, 250 pounds. He’s an accomplished blocker who has shown improvement in receiving ability. NFL scouts often value a player who can both block and catch, making Klein an intriguing Day 2-3 prospect if health cooperates and he continues to develop his receiving routes.
Overall outlook for 2026
Michigan returns notable talent at key positions, including skilled veterans and promising youngsters. Expect players such as Zack Marshall, Deakon Tonielli, and Hogan Hansen to contribute meaningful snaps as the offense and defense evolve under new leadership. With top-tier evaluators considering Klein as a draftable player and teams keeping a close eye on the evolving secondary, Michigan’s 2026 roster decisions will hinge on health, draft timing, and how effectively each player capitalizes on the upcoming off-season for growth and demonstration on the field.
Question for readers: Do you think the 2026 Michigan defense will anchor the team more than the offense, given the depth in the secondary and the potential at linebacker? Share your take and explain why you’d prioritize returning certain players or pushing others toward the draft.
