Michigan Football Stunned as Star Running Back Abruptly Exits Program—What’s Next?

Hester began his career at Western Michigan in 2023 − with current U-M defensive line coach Lou Esposito, then the Broncos’ defensive coordinator − and ran 29 times for 124 yards (4.3 yards per carry) and a pair of touchdowns. He transferred last season to UMass; as a sophomore, he rushed 119 times for 529 yards (4.4 yards per carry) and four touchdowns.

Hester flashed a bit of pass-catching ability, too, with 14 receptions for 58 yards for the Minutemen. The Cincinnati native committed to U-M shortly after the spring game.CJ Hester, a transfer from UMass, has left the program, team spokesman Dave Ablauf confirmed on Thursday, Aug. 7. Hester was practicing with the team as recently as earlier this week.Michigan football‘s running back depth just got a bit thinner.

The battle for the third running back spot, behind Jordan Marshall and Justice Haynes appears to be open and the main contenders are Micah Ka’apana, Bryson Kuzdzal and Princeton transfer John Volker.

Michigan’s roster just saw a subtle but significant shift in its backfield dynamics—CJ Hester, the transfer from UMass, has stepped away from the program, as confirmed by team spokesman Dave Ablauf earlier this week. Now, this isn’t your garden-variety departure; Hester was still on the practice field just days ago, showcasing glimpses of versatility with his dual-threat running and pass-catching potential. Originating from Western Michigan, where he crossed paths with current Michigan defensive line coach Lou Esposito, Hester’s journey through college football has been one marked by steady production and adaptability. His exit opens up an intriguing contest behind the Wolverines’ lead backs, Jordan Marshall and Justice Haynes, turning the spotlight onto contenders like Micah Ka’apana, Bryson Kuzdzal, and Princeton transplant John Volker. It’s a curveball that will surely ripple through the Wolverines’ offensive plans as they carve their path ahead. LEARN MORE

Tony Garcia is the Wolverines beat writer for the Detroit Free Press. Email him at [email protected] and follow him on X at @RealTonyGarcia.