Michigan football finished the 2025 season seven spots lower than where it began. The Wolverines were No. 21 in the final Associated Press Top-25 poll released Tuesday, a day after the conclusion of the College Football Playoff.

On3 slots Michigan No. 11 in its early 2026 power rankings after roster retention, portal additions, and the hire of Kyle Whittingham.

For what the expectations were for Michigan entering the 2025 football season, the Wolverines had a disappointing 9-4 season and failed to reach the College Foo

RJ Young: “Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham, one of the most underrated coaches in the sport, will enter 2026 leading the winningest program in college football history with a quarterback talented enough to help the Wolverines contend for the Big Ten championship.”

With the transfer portal closed, here’s where Michigan’s outgoing players landed — from Power Four moves to lower-level resets.

On Friday night, Michigan football landed athlete Salesi Moa, who was previously signed with Utah's class of 2026. Moa, who was ranked as a four-star prospect a

A Spartans defensive back with experience has found a new home in the Mid-American Conference via the transfer portal. Michigan State transfer safety Armorion Smith has committed to Toledo, according to a tweet from the Rockets football program. Smith has one more year of eligibility remaining.

After multiple near-misses, Michigan finally lands four-star Utah athlete Salesi Moa following Kyle Whittingham’s move to Ann Arbor.