Taylor Tatum Transfers to Michigan: Wolverines Reload Backfield for 2026 Oklahoma Grudge Match

ANN ARBOR, MI — Michigan just turned the Big Ten’s most crowded backfield into its most dangerous. On Thursday, former Oklahoma standout Taylor Tatum confirmed his transfer to Michigan, picking the Wolverines over a host of national suitors. The move comes as new head coach Kyle Whittingham looks to cement a physical identity in his first full season at the helm.

A “Top Five” Backfield in Ann Arbor

Tatum arrived in Norman as the top-ranked running back in the 2024 class. After a promising freshman year where he notched 278 yards and three touchdowns, his 2025 campaign stalled. Hampered by a nagging hamstring injury and ball-security concerns, he saw just one carry all of last season. Now, he heads to Michigan with three years of eligibility and a point to prove.

He isn’t joining a thin unit. Michigan recently secured the return of Jordan Marshall, who dominated 2025 with 932 rushing yards and 10 scores. Add in Savion Hiter, the No. 1 running back in the 2026 recruiting class who is already on campus, and Whittingham has three elite options. With Justice Haynes still weighing a pro career, the Wolverines are preparing for a “ground and pound” resurgence that fits Whittingham’s Utah-built DNA.

What They Said

“You’ve got to get to the playoffs. That’s our expectation. The development here is a big part of why players are choosing Michigan right now.” — Kyle Whittingham, Michigan Head Coach

“Tatum is a high-ceiling athlete who needed a fresh start. If he fixes the fumbles, Michigan just landed a Sunday-level talent for the price of a portal entry.” — Senior Big Ten Scout

The Week 2 Reckoning

This transfer adds immediate heat to the September 12, 2026 matchup between Oklahoma and Michigan at the Big House. The programs have essentially traded starters; Oklahoma landed Michigan’s star linebacker Cole Sullivan on Wednesday, a defender who recorded 44 tackles and three interceptions last season.

Tatum’s departure leaves Oklahoma looking for answers at RB1, while Michigan gains a weapon that Whittingham’s offensive coordinator, Jason Beck, can deploy in a variety of sets. For the Wolverines, the goal is simple: return to the College Football Playoff by running through anyone in their path. Tatum is the latest piece of that championship puzzle.