Michigan’s offense has not been just that in recent years. In fact, the powerhouse ranked a lowly 131 in passing offense and 113th in scoring offense last season. But the rumbling rumors that had been there since late November last year were proven correct. According to them, Michigan was set to make some big-time moves in the transfer portal. And that’s exactly what happened.

HC Sherrone Moore flipped QB Bryce Underwood from LSU, gaining some attention from the college football world. But Moore wanted more. And there comes former 5-star recruit and junior Alabama transfer Justice Haynes. 

In a move that shocked the world, Haynes, who last dressed up against Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl, decommitted from Alabama in December which he joined to play for the legendary HC Nick Saban. Looking at the opportunity, Moore brought Justice into Ann Arbor within hours. Already, his leadership skills have been a positive point for the Wolverines. Yet, so far, his on-field skills might not have impressed many, only highlighting the present concerns in the run-heavy program. But a national reporter, with all his belief, has outlined a path forward for him.

On the March 31st episode of the 247Sports podcast, analyst Emily Proud addressed the looming concern sent by a fan: “Can Justice Haynes truly be RB1 for the future National Champion Michigan Wolverines?”

That’s when co-host Cooper Petagna claimed with confidence, “I sure hope so. That’s why they brought him over there. This is a guy, when he came out, was one of the most talented running backs in the country. And quite honestly, me personally, had sky-high expectations for him in his first two years in college football. He has not met those.

“That being said, I am not disappointed and it’s not about my individual opinion but, this is a guy I think can reach another level, especially in Ann Arbor, the way they kind of go about their business philosophically in the Big 10.”

A sophomore, Haynes was in Alabama’s running back room for the last two seasons. Although a reliable substitute, he barely played as a freshman. Then, becoming a third option, he shared carries with a run-heavy QB in Jalen Milroe and RB Jam Miller and rushed just 79 times for 448 yards and 7 touchdowns. He also faltered on multiple occasions.

After a 13-carry Week 2 performance against South Florida, Haynes did not have more than eight carries in a game in 2024. “They are gonna rely a lot on that run game. they’re gonna rely a lot on that offensive line as well. In terms of the talent at receivers, it’s average at best. So, Justice Haynes is gonna be one of those guys who’s looking for more opportunities. Didn’t wanna share backfield duties in Tuscaloosa.

“I think everything that he wished for when he left Alabama, he is getting now at Michigan, but he has gonna have to carry the load. And this is typically a committee approach there in Ann Arbor, but he can be the guy. So, absolutely, I believe he’s got RB1 ability.”

After Michigan’s face-off against Texas, the wide receiver room’s shortcomings became clear. Unable to consistently gain separation or execute their routes effectively, the Wolverines’ receivers struggled significantly. The offense came up with only 9 receptions on 16 attempts in the opening three quarters.

While Haynes would have been the next man up in the line, his move to the transfer portal was the talk of the town. But surely, the RB knows why he signed up with the Wolverines.

Justice Haynes blesses Sherrone Moore’s program with a regimented approach

Haynes’ flip came off as a shock to many. After all, the 2025 season could have been the breakout year for Haynes, given that dual-threat quarterback Jalen Milroe graduated. But the running back could not fight the urge to hit the ‘FLIP’ button. One day, he felt like a change was coming. Looking at Ann Arbor, Haynes instantly knew that Michigan was the next home.

“I’m a big faith person. I felt like God was calling me in a different direction in my life, and so I’m just relying on His plan that He had for me. I’m thankful for my time in Alabama, it was an amazing two and a half years I had there being coached by Coach (Nick) Saban, being coached by Coach (Kalen) DeBoer, you know, great people, great men.” It’s not that he is not grateful for his Tuscaloosa chapter. However, there was a feel-good factor in Sherrone Moore’s squad.

“But Michigan, you know, it just–I fell in love with the place. I knew TA (running backs coach Tony Alford) from when I was getting recruited for Ohio State. I came up here, and this is the place I knew I wanted to be as soon as I got here.” There is another big factor behind Haynes’ choice. Along with running back coach Tony Alford, the RB connecting with second-year running back Jordan Marshall was also a factor. Now, this has been a steal deal for Sherrone Moore.

And every day, he has been showing why he belongs. Instead of working out with other backs or special team, Justice goes into the gym with the D-line men. His approach? They are much more powerful and built and that is how he wants to be. Moreover, the RB is bringing with him both routine and experience that he gained in Tuscaloosa.

Justice Haynes once shared, “I’m very regimented. I have a set routine that I follow each and every day. I got (in) my little notes app that I want to go to bed at this time. I want to wake up at this time. I want to do this, this, this on this day, certain treatments I want to get done on that day. How I want to go about my business. I believe preparation is very key. You want to prepare like a pro. I want to act like a pro in every aspect of my life.”

For this, he follows the “One-ingredient” diet, the reason why Haynes “Looks like a statue.” With a determined talent like Justice Haynes, Sherrone Moore’s gamble is a sure bet. Now, as he dresses up for the Wolverines in April 19’s Spring Game, it will be interesting to see how he finally makes a push for the better.