Michigan explores adding veteran linebackers after eligibility ruling expands transfer pool

The University of Michigan has opened preliminary talks with former James Madison linebacker Trent Hendrick and ex-Western Kentucky linebacker Jaylen Wester, who are considering a fifth season of college football following a new court injunction.

A recent court order in Colorado could allow athletes from the 2022 recruiting class to play a fifth collegiate season, prompting Michigan to contact two seasoned linebackers. The Wolverines have spoken with Trent Hendrick, a former James Madison standout who tallied 106 tackles and earned Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year honors, and Jaylen Wester, who recorded over 100 tackles at Western Kentucky. Both players are assessing the possibility of returning after stints in NFL rookie minicamps with the Kansas City Chiefs and Cleveland Browns.

Michigan’s outreach is still in its infancy, as the program looks to add experience to a linebacker corps that lost several contributors to graduation and the NFL. The move underscores the coaching staff’s willingness to adapt to the changing eligibility landscape and could signal more similar inquiries before the 2026 season begins.