Taylor Tatum's transfer to the Michigan football program was one of the most surprising moves of the offseason for the Wolverines.
The former No. 1 running back in the 2024 recruiting class committed to Michigan after entering the transfer portal, following two seasons at Oklahoma.
Tatum had 56 carries for 278 yards and three touchdowns for the Sooners as a true freshman. He only had one carry in 2025 before suffering a season-ending (hamstring) injury.
Jordan Marshall was actually ranked behind Tatum. He also had fewer rushing yards as a true freshman. It seemed like Tatum was going to contribute in the running back room, at least until Wednesday.
Michigan football's Taylor Tatum, who transferred in from Oklahoma and was the No. 1 RB in the Class of 2024, will begin his career in Ann Arbor in the safeties room, I'm told.
— Tony Garcia | Detroit Free Press (@RealTonyGarcia) January 21, 2026
He could move back to RB or see time there, but he will "start out at safety and go from there."
It was reported by Tony Garcia of the Detroit Free Press that Tatum will be changing positions to defensive back. He won't be the first Michigan football player to move from offense to defense. Mike Sainristil famously did it before the 2022 season. He helped Michigan win a national title, and was a second-round draft pick.
Taylor Tatum changes positions with Michigan
Tatum didn't play safety in high school, at least according to his 247 Sports profile. He was a prolific running back, so it's not surprising. Tatum is also a dynamic athlete. He was a three-sport athlete in high school. He also played baseball for Oklahoma and is expected to play baseball for Michigan.
Michigan doesn't really need a safety. You could argue with Chris Bracy, Jordan Young, Rod Moore, and Mason Curtis that the Wolverines need a running back more. Bracy was a starter for Memphis last season, while the others played extensive snaps for Michigan. Moore only played in three games but that was due to injury.
There's no question Tatum has the athleticism to play just about anywhere he wants. You just don't see a lot of running backs moving to defensive back.
However, with the retention of Bryson Kuzdal, who entered the portal before coming back, the Wolverines have three solid backs. Marshall will be the starter, followed by Savion Hiter and Kuzdal.
Tatum isn't needed at running back.