A surprising return solidifies the backfield. Kuzdzal withdraws from the portal, committing to anchoring Michigan's 2026 offense and embracing the new coaching staff's vision.
In a winter defined by high-profile exits and tectonic coaching shifts, the Michigan Wolverines just received a much-needed dose of continuity. Junior running back Bryson Kuzdzal, who entered the transfer portal on January 5 following the team’s Citrus Bowl loss to Texas, has officially withdrawn his name and confirmed his return to Ann Arbor for the 2026 season.
The decision comes as a significant victory for new head coach Kyle Whittingham, who has spent his first month on the job re-recruiting a roster that was heavily pursued by rival programs. In Kuzdzal, Whittingham retains a battle-tested veteran who proved in 2025 that he is far more than just a "depth piece." There were signs towards the end of last season that showed Kuzdzal has what it takes to make plays.
From Walk-On to Workhorse
Kuzdzal’s journey is the quintessential Michigan story. Arriving as a preferred walk-on from Forest Hills Eastern, he spent his first two years primarily contributing on special teams. However, the 2025 season saw him catapulted into the spotlight following injuries to starters Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall.
The peak of his junior campaign came on November 22 against Maryland, where Kuzdzal made his first career start. He responded with a career-high 100 rushing yards and three touchdowns, leading Michigan to a 45-20 victory. He followed that up with an 82-yard performance against Texas in the Citrus Bowl, proving he could produce against elite, top-tier defenses.
What His Return Means for the 2026 Offense
The return of the 5-foot-11, 210-pound back stabilizes an offense that is undergoing a massive schematic overhaul under offensive coordinator Jason Beck. Here is how Kuzdzal’s presence reshapes the outlook for 2026:
- The Power Element: While Michigan has added elite speed through the portal and recruiting (including 2026 blue-chip back Savion Hiter), Kuzdzal provides the physical, "between-the-tackles" presence that Whittingham’s offenses historically crave. He is a high-volume carrier who gets stronger as the game progresses.
- Security for Bryce Underwood: With a young superstar quarterback like Bryce Underwood at the helm, the most important asset is a reliable run game. Kuzdzal’s ability to pick up blitzes and gain "dirty yards" on 3rd-and-short will take the pressure off the passing game.
- A Loaded Depth Chart: Michigan now boasts one of the deepest RB rooms in the country. With Jordan Marshall returning from injury and the arrival of highly-touted freshman Savion Hiter, Kuzdzal ensures that Michigan won't miss a beat even if the injury bug strikes again.
The "Glue" Factor
Beyond the stats—326 yards and 4 touchdowns in limited action last year—Kuzdzal represents the culture Whittingham is trying to build. By choosing to withdraw from the portal, Kuzdzal signaled his belief in the new staff’s vision.
In an era of college football where players often jump ship for a clearer path to playing time, Kuzdzal is betting on himself to win a starting job in Ann Arbor. For a team that lost 22 players to the portal earlier this month, keeping a local product with "starter" tape is a momentum-shifter heading into spring ball.