In this new age of college football where player re-signings are common practice and loyalties are more fragile than ever, let’s take a look at five key players we hope the next Michigan Football staff can retain for 2026.
No, these players are not necessarily rumored or even expected to depart, but better to forecast the possibilities than be blindsided by a transfer announcement.
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(Disclaimer: Bryce Underwood was considered too obvious for inclusion.)
WR Andrew Marsh
The freshman was a revelation this year, leading all Wolverines pass catchers with 42 receptions and 641 yards, and tying Donaven McCulley with three touchdowns. Beyond his impressive catch radius, he is a weapon with the ball in his hands — he scored a rushing touchdown as well — and is the type of explosive threat this offense desperately covets.
Michigan hasn’t exactly been a pass-heavy offense in recent memory, but playmakers like Marsh are key to unlocking the full potential of the offense.
DL Trey Pierce
There was always going to be a drop-off in production with the departures of defensive tackles Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, and now Michigan is faced with another line overhaul as Damon Payne, Tré Williams, Rayshaun Benny, Derrick Moore and Jaishawn Barham are all gone after the bowl game.
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Retaining a veteran like Pierce, who knows this defense and what it means to battle in the Big Ten trenches, is critical to maintaining a stout interior defense. This program has long prided itself on development, and Pierce should be next in a long line of achievers.
LB Cole Sullivan
Much like Pierce and the defensive line unit, Sullivan should be tasked with spearheading the middle of the defense in 2026. Ideally, Jimmy Rolder uses his final year of eligibility and serves as Sullivan’s running mate, but there are no guarantees there; after a good 2025 season, Rolder could generate draft interest.
Sullivan may be young, but he looked comfortable during his sophomore campaign, and has all the athleticism and instincts needed to become a great linebacker. Hanging onto him will be crucial.
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Edge Carter Meadows
The top prize in this year’s recruiting class and one of the preeminent prospects in the nation, Meadows has the tools to become a standout pass rusher in the future. The aforementioned front seven losses will sting, and it is on youngsters such as Meadows to step in immediately.
Nate Marshall impressed in his limited snaps as a freshman this year, and Cam Brandt should stick around as well. But Michigan needs a game-changer on the edge, and Meadows is a prime candidate.
WR Travis Johnson
Johnson is one of the more celebrated recruits in his class and plays a position of need. Like Marsh, Johnson could be a big part of Underwood’s evolution as another big-bodied, smooth receiver, especially with Donaven McCulley out of eligibility.
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The Wolverines have already lost two commits (three-star offensive lineman Bear McWhorter and four-star tight end Matt Ludwig), and this is not an offensive class that can afford to lose many more recruits.
