The Michigan Wolverines have lost yet another talented running back to the transfer portal.

The Michigan Wolverines haven’t lost many players to the transfer portal this season. Some of this may be attributed to the fact that they are preparing for their semifinal game versus Alabama, and those who are considering transferring may stay for now to acquire experience. It also speaks to the culture Jim Harbaugh has established. Despite this, they had their first participant declare their intention to enter the portal. CJ Stokes, a talented running back, stated on social media that he is joining the transfer portal.

Michigan Wolverines running back CJ Stokes Has Entered the Transfer Portal

Stokes is a second-year rushing back from South Carolina who most fans will remember from last season. Stokes filled in for Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, who were both injured, and ran for 273 yards and a touchdown against Illinois. He never returned to the field. With Corum and Edwards returning in 2023, Stokes appeared in the first two games but did not play again. This was partly due to injuries, but he also dropped down the depth chart.

The Wolverines are unconcerned.

It’s never easy to lose a player, but the Wolverines have plenty of options at running back. Jordan Marshall and Micah Ka’apana will join the team in 2024, joining Ben Hall and Cole Cabana. If Michigan was desperate enough, they could probably find a running back through the transfer portal. There is also a chance that Edwards will return next season, though many believe he will declare for the draft.

Can the Michigan Wolverines capture the national championship in 2023? They must beat a difficult Alabama team before shutting down a great offense in the final game.