The Michigan Wolverines have bolstered their football roster with the addition of Justice Haynes, a highly-touted running back from Alabama. Haynes, who entered the NCAA transfer portal on December 13, has two years of eligibility remaining and chose Michigan over several other top programs. The commitment comes ahead of the upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31 in Tampa, Florida, where the Wolverines will face his former team, Alabama. Haynes was pursued by multiple schools, including Ole Miss, South Carolina, Ohio State, and others, but ultimately decided between Michigan and South Carolina. Ranked as the top running back in the transfer portal, Haynes brings significant experience and talent to Ann Arbor.
A Promising Addition to the Wolverines' Backfield
The arrival of Justice Haynes adds depth and versatility to Michigan's already talented running back corps. With three returning players—Benjamin Hall, Jordan Marshall, and Micah Ka’apana—and two incoming freshmen, Jasper Parker and Donovan Johnson, the Wolverines are set for a competitive 2025 season. Haynes' prior connection with Michigan's running backs coach Tony Alford, who previously coached at Ohio State, played a crucial role in his decision. Alford had recruited Haynes during his high school days at Buford High School in Georgia, establishing a strong rapport that influenced this pivotal move.
Haynes has an impressive background, having appeared in 25 games with six starts over two seasons at Alabama. His freshman year was under legendary head coach Nick Saban, while his sophomore season saw him playing under first-year head coach Kalen DeBoer. Despite sharing time with teammate Jamarion Miller, Haynes demonstrated exceptional performance, ranking eighth in the SEC with 5.7 yards per carry. In the 2024 season alone, he accumulated 448 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 79 carries. Notably, Haynes averaged 3.2 yards after contact per rush and contributed significantly with 22 first downs, moving the chains on nearly 28% of his attempts. His ability to make big plays was evident, with 200 of his total yards coming from just five rushes of 15-plus yards.
Proven Performance and Future Potential
Justice Haynes' impact on the field is undeniable, especially given his standout performances in high-pressure situations. During the 2023 Rose Bowl against Michigan, Haynes showcased his skills with four rushes for 31 yards, including an 11-yard gain. As a true freshman, he made an immediate impression, rushing 25 times for 168 yards and scoring two touchdowns in six offensive appearances. His overall contribution extended to 13 games that season, highlighting his adaptability and reliability as a key player. Haynes' recruitment history further underscores his potential; rated as the No. 33 overall player and second-best running back in the 2023 class, he was a coveted prospect.
With his proven track record and dynamic playmaking ability, Haynes is poised to make a significant contribution to the Wolverines' offense. His presence will not only strengthen the team's running game but also provide valuable leadership and experience. As Michigan prepares for future challenges, including the upcoming bowl game against Alabama, the addition of Haynes signals a strategic move to elevate the program's competitiveness. Fans and analysts alike anticipate witnessing Haynes' continued growth and success in maize and blue, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the team's future endeavors.