Don't worry, you're not about to read that one of Michigan's star players has already hit the portal. However, a loss is always a loss, and that's exactly what the Wolverines have already suffered, days before they even learn their postseason fate.
Earlier this week, veteran offensive lineman Connor Jones reportedly told head coach Sherrone Moore that he planned to enter the transfer portal this winter.
Jones, who joined the Michigan Wolverines in 2022, hasn't seen a ton of in-game action throughout his collegiate career, making just 13 total appearances over the last four seasons. However, he was a part of the team that won the National Championship and has seen an increase in playing time.
Is Connor Jones the first domino to fall?
Reports came out that Jones had told the team he planned to enter the transfer portal on Tuesday, Dec. 2, just a few days after Michigan lost to Ohio State for the first time in six years and only five days before the Wolverines learned which bowl game they would get invited to.
With a second rocky season in a row since Moore took over as head coach, it shouldn't be surprising that players are starting to look in other directions for their futures. So, is Jones' decision to transfer the first of many?
Players like true-freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood and star running back Jordan Marshall likely aren't going anywhere. However, other players, who don't see a ton of playing time like Jones, could be heading to programs that would call their numbers a little more often.
Jones played in 10 games this year, more than quadrupling his game count heading into this season. However, most of those appearances were for special teams, playing offensive lineman in just two matchups (against Central Michigan and Maryland).
While the transfer portal window doesn't officially open until January 2, more and more players could make their intentions known over the next few weeks, joining Jones in the transfer process.