Just days after landing UMass transfer CJ Hester, Michigan has added yet another piece to its evolving backfield—this time securing a commitment from Princeton running back.
As reported by Pete Nakos and later confirmed by Michigan via X, top star brings a strong combination of experience, reliability, and versatility to the Wolverines. The 6-foot, 215-pound back was lightly recruited out of high school, receiving mostly FCS offers before ultimately joining Princeton. After a steady rise during his college career, he emerged as the Tigers’ lead rusher in the latter half of his time there. In his senior season, he tallied 514 rushing yards and six touchdowns on just 89 carries, while also contributing as a receiver with 10 catches for 75 yards. Impressively, he finished his collegiate career without a single fumble.
Volker earned Honorable Mention All-Ivy honors in 2023 and will now look to carve out a role in Michigan’s increasingly crowded running back room. Junior transfer Justice Haynes, formerly of Alabama, is expected to be the team’s primary back following a strong spring game. But behind him, there’s a deep group that includes sophomores Jordan Marshall, Micah Ka’apana, and Hester, as well as junior Bryson Kuzdzal.
Michigan coaches have consistently emphasized the value of depth and competition at every position, and the running backs are no exception. With the additions of Hester and Volker, the Wolverines hope their bolstered depth will translate into a powerful, multi-faceted ground attack by the time the season kicks off in August.