Alabama RB transfer Justice Haynes expected to commit to Michigan, per report

Former Alabama running back Justice Haynes is expected to commit to Michigan, per CBS Sports Matt Zenitz, in a big win for head coach Sherrone Moore and Co. in the portal. Haynes was a Top 50 recruit in the 2023 signing class.

Haynes brings a much-needed infusion of talent and experience to the Michigan backfield. Of the Wolverines returning running backs, the top three in production combined for 22 carries for 84 yards and one touchdown in 2024. Haynes will likely compete with Jordan Marshall and others to be the top back in 2025.

Michigan is currently gearing up for the ReliaQuest Bowl against Alabama, which is set for Dec. 31. It’s a rematch of last year’s Rose Bowl Game, which the Wolverines won to advance to the national championship. It also turned out to be the final game of Nick Saban’s legendary career before he announced his retirement.

Haynes spent two seasons with the Crimson Tide after arriving as a highly touted recruit under Saban.

Haynes spent 2023 in largely a reserve role behind Jase McClellan and Roydell Williams, rushing for 168 yards and two touchdowns across 13 appearances. He then took on a more significant role under new coach Kalen DeBoer in 2024, forming quite the one-two punch with Jam Miller in the Crimson Tide backfield.

This past year, Haynes ran for 448 yards to rank third on the roster behind Miller and Jalen Milroe in rushing. He also added seven touchdowns on the ground and 99 receiving yards. He will have two years of eligibility remaining.

Haynes played high school football at Buford (Ga.), where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 33 overall recruit in the 2023 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire. 

The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and X account are excellent resources to stay up to date with the latest moves.