Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

Michigan football offers scholarship to running back in the transfer portal

Originally posted on Michigan Wolverines on SI
By Trent Knoop | Last updated Apr 19, 2025 11:37 AM ET

Michigan football's first big loss in the spring transfer cycle came when Benjamin Hall opted to enter. Hall was likely going to be RB3 behind Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall in 2025, but Hall was likely hoping to have more of a role, and will now search for that in the portal.

The Wolverines had lost Cole Cabana and Tavierre Dunlap to the portal this past winter -- along with Donovan Edwards and Kalel Mullings, who ran out of eligibility. The Michigan running back room is a little thin, and the Wolverines are looking to bring in someone to replace Hall.

Michigan offered former Princeton running back John Volker a scholarship on Friday night. Volker is in town on a visit and will watch the Michigan spring game.

After an amazing visit, I am excited to receive an offer from the University of Michigan! Thank you to @Coach_SMoore @Coach_AlfordUM the rest of the staff for this opportunity. pic.twitter.com/ahi7SLofEU
— John Volker (@JohnVolker3) April 19, 2025

The 6-foot running back was an Honorable Mention Ivy League in 2024 for Princeton. Playing in all but one game in 2024, Volker rushed for 514 yards on the ground with six touchdowns. In his career, playing four years with Princeton, Volker carried the ball 245 times for 1,183 yards, and 17 touchdowns.

Michigan returns Micah Ka'apana at running back, and the Wolverines signed two backs in the 2025 cycle. Both Jasper Parker and Donovan Johnson will be part of the equation in 2025.

This article first appeared on Michigan Wolverines on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: