Michigan is reportedly trying to add two experienced linebackers as the NCAA landscape changes. Both players could return for a fifth college season, thanks to a court decision from the U.S. District Court of Colorado. The ruling might offer additional eligibility to athletes in the 2022 recruiting class.
Trent Hendrick played a key role in James Madison's College Football Playoff run, earning Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year. He recorded an 82.7 overall defensive grade from Pro Football Focus, with top marks in run defense, tackling, and pass rushing. Hendrick has already taken part in rookie minicamps with the Chiefs and Browns but may return to college.
Jaylen Wester also made a strong impression at Western Kentucky. He tallied over 100 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. Pro Football Focus gave him a 70.2 overall defensive grade and an 81 in run defense. Wester, who played at Florida Atlantic and Colorado, could add depth to a Michigan unit in need of experienced players.
The Michigan linebacker group is currently thin. Cole Sullivan left for Oklahoma, while Jaishawn Barham, Jimmy Rolder, and Ernest Hausmann moved on via graduation or the NFL. Sophomore Chase Taylor is seen as a rising talent, but he has not yet played significant minutes. Senior Troy Bowles, transfer Nathaniel Staehling, and sophomore Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng are developing, but the team sees value in adding a proven player.
Michigan tried to strengthen the position earlier in the winter but missed out on targets like Rasheem Biles, who went to Texas from Pitt, and Cade Uluave, who joined BYU after Cal. The recent losses and lack of depth have pushed the staff to dig deeper into the transfer portal. Hendrick and Wester could address the unit's needs.
Bringing in either player would improve the team's depth and provide competition for starting roles. Hendrick and Wester both bring high-level production and collegiate experience, which could elevate the defense. Michigan is being aggressive to take advantage of the evolving NCAA rules. With more players likely to pursue a fifth season, more reports like this may emerge before the 2026 season starts.
Michigan's interest in Hendrick and Wester shows the new coaching staff's proactive approach. While talks are in the early stages, the team clearly sees these potential additions as a way to strengthen an underdeveloped position. The court ruling has opened new doors, and more reports could follow as the season approaches.
Hiring a high-impact linebacker now would address immediate needs and give Michigan time to refine the defense before games begin. Both Hendrick and Wester have the ability to make an impact, and their arrival could influence the team's performance. The Wolverines are staying flexible and may act quickly if either player decides to return to college.
As the transfer portal and NCAA regulations continue to shape the game, Michigan must remain flexible and quick to act. Both Hendrick and Wester could fill a critical need, and the Wolverines are ready to explore all options as they build toward the upcoming season.