With the 2026 college football transfer portal officially open, we are seeing a major exodus for players at certain programs. As expected, Utah is being hit hard, as Kyle Whittingham has been replaced as head coach by Morgan Scalley. Could this lead to even more good news for the Wolverines?
Who's leaving and who's joining? Live Michigan football transfer portal tracker
The Wolverines and Warde Manuel already took full advantage of things by hiring Whittingham to take over for Sherrone Moore. On Friday, however, big news came in with stud safety Tao Johnson revealing that he's saying goodbye to Salt Lake City and he'll now be looking for a new place to call home. What about Ann Arbor for him?
Utah standout safety Tao Johnson is entering the transfer portal, a source tells @CBSSports.
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) January 2, 2026
The 6-foot-1, 200-pounder has made 34 career starts and finished this season with 51 tackles and two interceptions. pic.twitter.com/pGqCkhspRM
Utah DB Tao Johnson transferring could lead to even more good news for Michigan
A veteran who signed with Utah as a 4-star recruit in the 2022 class, Johnson is coming off a strong year for the Utes this past campaign. In 2025, he recorded more than 50 total tackles and a pair of interceptions. He's no question a big loss for Utah's defense.
With so many exits for the Michigan D, it'd make sense if Whittingham decides to try to sell his former defensive back on the idea of closing out his college career in the Big Ten. On paper, Michigan is poised to record a strong year in '26. Might Johnson want to be a part of that?
That's up in the air at this point, but don't be surprised if Whittingham picks up the phone and reaches out to him. On offense, everyone is still keeping an eye on Bryce Underwood, as the 5-star freshman said he'll be making a final decision on his future following the Citrus Bowl.
Unfortunately, Michigan suffered a loss to Texas, but Whittingham has gone all-in to keep his QB home. The hope is Underwood will stay put and some big-name signees will also be on the way via the portal. It goes without saying, but having Johnson be one of those commitments for Michigan would be pretty sweet for the Wolverines if that ends up getting done.