Michigan Playmaker Abruptly Bolts Program Weeks Before College Football Season

"Michigan running back CJ Hester has left the Wolverines program, his agent Zach Cardenez tells On3," Nakos wrote on Thursday. "The former UMass and Western Michigan transfer will finish out classes this fall and redshirt.

"Hester is expected to enter the transfer portal as a grad transfer and have two years of eligibility remaining," Nakos added.

"Michigan revamped its running back room this offseason, picking up Alabama transfer Justice Haynes. Haynes and Jordan Marshall are expected to man the top two spots in the backfield."

Alabama Transfer Justice Haynes Headlines Michigan's Running Backs

Hester transferred from the UMass Minutemen during the offseason, but it does not appear the running back will play a game for Michigan. The Wolverines also turned to the SEC to potentially find the team's next starting running back.

Former Alabama Crimson Tide rusher Justice Haynes is among Michigan's top current running backs. Haynes posted 79 carries for 448 rushing yards and seven touchdowns during 12 appearances for Bama in 2024.

Michigan Running Backs Jordan Marshall and Justice Haynes May Split Carries

Additionally, Jordan Marshall is expected to be one of Michigan's key running backs. Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore indicated both running backs will get significant carries creating the potential for a split backfield.

"Justice and Jordan, they're going to be a great duo because Justice is a home run hitter, but so is Jordan," Moore explained, per 247Sports. "Jordan is that physical thunder that you need. It's going to be fun to watch those guys."