Michigan football has one of the most talented running back rooms in college football. It's also not super deep.
Micah Ka'apana was one player who was expected to possibly contribute beyond Jordan Marshall and Savion Hiter.
Micah Ka'apana ruled out for the season by Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham
Ka'apana, ranked No. 508 coming out of high school, a three-star prospect, appeared in four games last season for Michigan with 38 yards on 10 rushing attempts. He flashed a little against Texas in the Citrus Bowl with 20 rushing yards on three attempts, plus a catch for eight yards.
However, any thought of Ka'apana being the third running back ended on Thursday, as Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham announced he was out for the season.
#Michigan HC Kyle Whittingham says RB Micah Ka’apana suffered a lower leg injury and will be out for the season.
— Brice Marich (@BriceMarich) April 9, 2026
No other long-term injuries on the team right now.
Bryson Kuzdal is currently in line to be the third running back. He worked his way into that role last season. The former walk-on had 100 yards and three touchdowns in the win over Maryland.
Kuzdal entered the transfer portal briefly. However, once Justice Haynes decided to leave, it probably made it easier to return. Marshall and Hiter, who were each praised by Whittingham during his press conference, the same one where he announced Ka'apana's injury, are expected to receive a bulk of the carries this season.
Ka'apana's injury does leave the room a little thin. Hopefully, Michigan won't need to go beyond a third running back, but with the way the Wolverines are known for running the ball, or even how much the new coaching staff is known for running it, you just never know.