Every offseason, the NFL Draft decisions roll in-and with them, a few surprises. For Michigan football, fresh off a national title and facing a coaching transition, several early declarations caught fans and analysts off guard.
While some Wolverines were expected to make the leap, a trio of players raised eyebrows with their choices to go pro. Let’s dive into the three most unexpected departures from Ann Arbor and what their decisions mean moving forward.
Marlin Klein: Blocking His Way to the League
Tight end Marlin Klein is one of those players who doesn’t light up the box score but still managed to earn an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine. That alone speaks to how league evaluators view his potential. Klein’s calling card is his blocking-he’s physical, technically sound, and brings value in the run game, which Michigan leaned on heavily during its title run.
But as a pass-catcher? That’s where the questions start.
Outside of a solid showing against New Mexico, Klein was largely a non-factor in the receiving game. He didn’t score a touchdown beyond that game, and his overall production left a lot to be desired.
That said, NFL teams are always looking for tight ends who can set the edge and contribute on special teams, and Klein checks those boxes.
Michigan, meanwhile, won’t be left scrambling. The Wolverines hit the transfer portal hard and landed some promising pass-catching talent, including JJ Buchanan and a crop of new wideouts. So while Klein’s departure might have raised some eyebrows, it’s not a devastating blow for the offense.
Jimmy Rolder: Betting on Himself
Linebacker Jimmy Rolder was poised to be a cornerstone of Michigan’s defense in 2026. Had he returned, he likely would’ve been a preseason All-Big Ten selection and a key leader on a unit that’s been among the nation’s best. Instead, he’s taking the leap to the NFL-and betting on himself in the process.
Rolder is one of eight Wolverines invited to the 2026 NFL Combine, and he brings a solid résumé to the table. Still, his decision comes with risk.
He likely would’ve earned more in NIL at Michigan than he will on a rookie minimum contract, especially if he slides in the draft or goes undrafted. But Rolder has strong ties to former Michigan coaches now in the NFL-Jim Harbaugh, Jesse Minter, and Mike Macdonald-which could help him land in the right situation.
From Michigan’s perspective, this one stings. While the program did bring in several linebackers, none offer the combination of experience, production, and scheme familiarity that Rolder brought to the table. His departure leaves a noticeable gap in the middle of the defense.
Giovanni El-Hadi: A Quiet Exit
Of the three, offensive lineman Giovanni El-Hadi’s decision might be the most puzzling. He didn’t play in the bowl game, and he wasn’t on many draft boards to begin with. El-Hadi was out of eligibility, so returning wasn’t an option-but his lack of recent playing time and absence from the NFL Combine make his path to the pros an uphill climb.
El-Hadi showed flashes earlier in his career, often stepping in for injured starters and holding his own. But those moments were few and far between, and without a strong finish to his college career or a combine invite to boost his stock, he’ll need to make a strong impression during team visits and pro day workouts to stay on the radar.
The Bottom Line
Every draft cycle has its share of head-scratchers, and Michigan’s 2026 class is no exception. Marlin Klein’s blocking might get him in the door.
Jimmy Rolder’s upside and connections could help him stick. Giovanni El-Hadi will have to fight for every opportunity.
For Michigan, the losses are manageable-but they do highlight the changing landscape of college football, where NIL, coaching changes, and individual ambition all play a role in shaping a player’s path.