Justice Haynes didn’t just arrive in Ann Arbor this season-he announced himself. The Alabama transfer and former five-star recruit made the most of his first year with Michigan, flashing the kind of game-breaking ability that turns heads on Saturdays and earns NFL scouts’ attention on Sundays.
In just eight games, Haynes racked up 857 rushing yards on 121 carries. That’s a blistering 7.1 yards per attempt-elite production by any standard, and even more impressive considering the physicality of Big Ten defenses.
His lowest output came against USC, where he averaged 5.1 yards per carry before exiting early due to injury. Still, even in limited action, Haynes showed he’s a home-run threat every time he touches the ball.
And when we say home-run threat, we mean it. Haynes ripped off two 75-yard touchdown runs this season-one against Oklahoma and another against Nebraska.
He also had a 59-yard score to open the year against New Mexico and broke off a 43-yard dash against Wisconsin. That kind of explosive ability doesn’t just stretch defenses-it breaks them.
There’s no question Haynes was on a trajectory that could’ve landed him in Heisman conversations had he stayed healthy. There were whispers he might suit up against Ohio State, but he remained in a walking boot, sidelined during one of the biggest games of the year.
Now, the question shifts to his future. Haynes is draft-eligible, and with the kind of tape he’s put out, he could test the NFL waters.
But with only eight games under his belt, there’s a case to be made that another season in maize and blue could boost his stock even higher. Michigan is certainly hoping that’s the route he takes.
According to reports, the Wolverines are going all-in to bring Haynes back, reportedly working on a significant NIL package to keep him in Ann Arbor for another year. If they can pull it off, Michigan’s backfield could be one of the most dangerous in the country.
Even without Haynes, the Wolverines aren’t exactly hurting at the position. Jordan Marshall stepped up in a big way this season, finishing fifth in the Big Ten in rushing yards with 932.
He averaged 6.2 yards per carry and did it on just 150 touches-the fewest among the conference’s top five rushers. That kind of efficiency doesn’t just happen-it’s the mark of a back who knows how to find daylight and finish runs.
Add in five-star freshman Savion Hiter, and Michigan’s running back room is loaded with talent, regardless of what Haynes decides. But let’s be honest-if Haynes does come back, this group has the potential to be special. We're talking about a backfield that could rival any in the country, with a mix of speed, power, and big-play potential that few teams can match.
Injuries took a toll on Michigan’s backfield this season, so depth won’t be taken for granted. But there’s also the question of balance-how do you keep that much talent happy and involved? That’s a good problem to have, and one Michigan would gladly welcome if it means Haynes is back in the fold.
Bottom line: With or without Justice Haynes, Michigan’s ground game is built to be a force. But if he returns, it might just be the best in college football.