The first day of the transfer portal being open ended up being a rough one for Michigan football as multiple starters from last season have entered already.
Cole Sullivan, a sophomore linebacker, entered the portal early on Friday morning, although he left the door open for a return.
Some others haven't, though. Zeke Berry, a two-year starter and All-Big Ten selection at cornerback, also entered the transfer portal, as did Elijah Dotson, a freshman cornerback who played in 12 games this season, and seemed due for a larger role in 2026.
That wasn't the last departure of the day, as another significant departure happened late on Friday night. Starting right tackle Andrew Sprague, who just wrapped up his redshirt freshman season, has entered the portal, too, via Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports.
Sprague is a 6-foot-8 offensive tackle who has been starting since the ReliQuest Bowl as a true freshman. Sprague earned All-Big Ten honors this season, starting all 13 games. He was expected to be a fixture on the offensive line for years to come.
Now, it appears as though Sprague has played his last game as a Michigan football player.
The bright spot for Michigan football
The one piece of good news is that the offensive line is still deep. That's one position where some attrition could happen.
Evan Link is another player to watch. Bringing him back for next season is essential. It will also be important to secure guys like Blake Frazier, Andrew Babalola, Ty Haywood, and Jake Guarnera for next season, along with Nathan Efobi.
That's six solid players right there, assuming everyone is healthy. Brady Norton also started in the bowl game, which Sprauge missed. And Michigan can add players, too.
You would like to say Sprague will be the last starting-caliber player to leave, but that's wishful thinking.