Depth is critical along the offensive line. The new Michigan football coaching staff seems to know that as well as anyone, based on how they have operated this offseason.
Outside of quarterback Bryce Underwood, and upgrading the wide receiver position, keeping the offensive line intact was a top priority.
And it worked. Despite Andrew Sprague and Jake Guarnera entering the transfer portal for a short time, the Wolverines retained three of their five starters from last season. The two Michigan football didn't keep were out of eligibility.
It has been impressive. New offensive line coach Jim Harding is known as one of the best in the business. That's probably why the Wolverines were able to get some of their players back from the portal, but as it happens, they weren't done getting players back on the offensive line.
Lawrence Hatter provides even more O-line depth for Michigan football
Lawrence Hatter, a 25-game starter for Ferris State before transferring to Michigan last season, entered the portal last week. It felt like he was looking for a chance to play somewhere else.
Michigan o-lineman Lawrence Hattar has withdrawn from the transfer portal, @mzenitz and I have learned.
— Chris Hummer (@chris_hummer) January 21, 2026
Played in two games in his Wolverines debut. Came from Ferris State where he was a 25-game starter at LT and LG. https://t.co/UnvRQUe8DI pic.twitter.com/cwsA3RR1Bj
Yet, according to Chris Hummer of 247 Sports, Hattar has withdrawn his name from the transfer portal, giving the Wolverines yet another quality player up front.
Hattar could certainly be in the mix to start. Three or four starting jobs seem to be spoken for. But the Wolverines still need interior depth, and there's a chance a darkhorse like Hatter could emerge and unseat Nathan Efobi or Evan Link, who are among the favorites to start at guard.
Offensive line depth is one thing you can't have enough of. And based on what the Wolverines have done during the offseason, it won't be an issue for Michigan football in 2026.