Why Justice Haynes is ready to lead for Michigan football

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The Wolverines’ running game in 2024 wasn’t quite as anticipated with no quarterback or passing game, and with Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards leading the charge. But Michigan football is looking to change things in a hurry.

The maize and blue got a glimpse of the future in the postseason in 2024 when Jordan Marshall, a true freshman and former four-star from Ohio, shined against Alabama. But they also got another glimpse in the postseason the year before, albeit from the opposing Crimson Tide in the Rose Bowl.

The Wolverines managed to bring over Alabama running back Justice Haynes via the transfer portal this offseason, and the junior will likely step into a starring role after being relegated to the bench his first two years in college football. Upon arriving in Ann Arbor, head coach Sherrone Moore not only sees a viable player, but also someone who exudes leadership — both on the field as well as off.

“Yeah, you see him as a guy that’s another leader on the team,” Moore said. “The dude only eats one-ingredient foods. That’s why he looks like a statue. He takes care of his body in every way. He’s a leader off the field with how he approaches academics and his social life and everything.

“On the field, he has that mentality about him. You can see his experience and him playing in big game before and understanding the game and understanding the moment and understanding how to prepare. He brings that to that room and to the offense and to the team. It’s been great to have him around.”

In 2023, Haynes had 25 carries for 168 yards and two touchdowns but he really started to break out in 2024 when he had 79 carries for 448 yards and seven touchdowns. This past year, he sat behind then-junior Jam Miller, who was the second-leading rusher behind dual-threat quarterback Jalen Milroe.

Haynes was one of…

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Publish date : 2025-03-25 21:03:00

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