Michigan is in the mix for a major offensive weapon in the transfer portal

Michigan football could be adding a dynamic pass catcher to its roster for the 2026 season.
Dec 31, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Utah Utes tight end JJ Buchanan (81) celebrates after a reception against the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the first half during the SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Dec 31, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Utah Utes tight end JJ Buchanan (81) celebrates after a reception against the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the first half during the SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It's no secret that Michigan football needs to find more help for star quarterback Bryce Underwood, who confirmed that he'll be back for the 2026 season.

Andrew Marsh has agreed to terms to come back. Yet, he hasn't announced it on his social media, which has fans a little nervous.

Hopefully, that happens soon. Jordan Marshall was the latest Michigan football player to be part of the campaign on social media.

Marsh had 651 receiving yards last season and was a freshman All-American. Down the stretch, he was one of the most productive wideouts in the Big Ten, so it's going to be exciting to see what he can Underwood can do together as sophomores.

Another impact pass catcher on the radar

Another sophomore could be part of the mix. Utah tight end/WR JJ Buchanan entered the transfer portal on Wednesday. The 6-foot-3, 225-pound pass catcher has obvious ties to the current Michigan football coaching staff.

Kyle Whittingham was his head coach last season, Freddie Whittingham was his position coach, and Jason Beck was his offensive coordinator. The dynamic pass catcher, Buchanan, caught 26 passes this season for the Utes for 427 yards and six touchdowns. He averaged 16.4 yards per reception.

Buchanan took off down the stretch, too. In the last three games, he caught eight passes for 215 yards and two touchdowns. So more than half of his production came in the last three games. He still had at least 65 yards receiving in each of those outings, while also having at least one reception of 29 yards or more in each game.

So like Marsh, Buchanan is an explosive play waiting to happen. And according to EJ Holland of The Wolverine, he's on an official visit to Michigan football, while another former Ute is trending to be a Wolverine.

As far as portal additions go, it doesn't get much bigger than this.

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