Michigan opens the Kyle Whittingham era on September 5 against Western Michigan. The new head coach brought in a large group of transfers, many of whom are expected to compete for starting jobs or significant rotational roles.
Not every addition will see the field regularly. Four transfers currently project as depth pieces rather than regular contributors in 2026.
What Happened
Whittingham and his staff used the portal to rebuild depth across the roster. While several high-profile arrivals are expected to play early, others were brought in primarily for experience, competition, and long-term development.
The four players below currently sit behind established or higher-upside options at their positions.
Why This Matters
Understanding realistic roles helps set proper expectations. Fans often assume every portal addition will make an immediate impact. In reality, many serve as insurance and developmental pieces, especially in the first year of a new coaching staff.
Key Details Fans Need to Know
Quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi The Colorado State transfer arrives with extensive experience (6,938 career passing yards, 38 touchdowns, 29 interceptions). He is competing with true freshman Tommy Carr for the backup job behind sophomore starter Bryce Underwood. Even if he wins the QB2 role, significant playing time is unlikely unless Underwood is unavailable.
Center Houston Torres-Ka’aha’aina The Nebraska transfer appeared in only two games last season, mostly in mop-up duty. Jake Guarnera is the projected starter at center and is viewed as one of the stronger options in the Big Ten. Torres-Ka’aha’aina projects as a pure depth piece this year, with a possible larger role in 2027.
Linebacker Aisea Moa Best known as the older brother of wide receiver Salesi Moa, he has mostly played special teams and reserve roles across stops at BYU and Michigan State (29 career tackles). He brings familiarity with defensive coordinator Jay Hill from their time together at BYU but is expected to remain a special-teams and depth option.
Linebacker Max Alford The nephew of running backs coach Tony Alford has more experience (four college seasons at Utah State and BYU) and has also played under Jay Hill. Still, he currently sits behind Chase Taylor, Troy Bowles, Nathaniel Staehling, and Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng. Both Alford and Moa project as third-team linebackers in Michigan’s 4-2-5 scheme.
What Happens Next
Roles can change with injuries, strong camp performances, or schematic adjustments. Fowler-Nicolosi’s battle with Tommy Carr will be worth monitoring, as will any interior offensive line injuries that could elevate Torres-Ka’aha’aina.
For Moa and Alford, special teams contributions may be their clearest path to the field in 2026.
The Bigger Picture
Whittingham’s first roster at Michigan prioritizes both immediate contributors and depth. These four transfers represent the latter category. Their presence strengthens the program’s overall roster security even if their individual snap counts remain low this fall.
In a long season that could stretch into January, having experienced backups at quarterback, center, and linebacker provides valuable insurance.
13. FAQ Section
Which Michigan transfers are least likely to play in 2026? Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi, Houston Torres-Ka’aha’aina, Aisea Moa, and Max Alford currently project for limited roles.
Is Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi the backup quarterback? He is competing with true freshman Tommy Carr. A decision is still pending.
Why did Michigan take Houston Torres-Ka’aha’aina? He provides young depth at center behind Jake Guarnera and has multiple years of eligibility remaining.
Do Aisea Moa and Max Alford have coaching connections? Yes. Both previously played under defensive coordinator Jay Hill, and Max Alford is the nephew of running backs coach Tony Alford.
Could any of these players still earn significant snaps? Injuries or standout camp performances could open opportunities, particularly for Fowler-Nicolosi and Torres-Ka’aha’aina.
Reader Question…
Which of these four transfers do you think has the best chance to exceed expectations and earn more playing time than currently projected?
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