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Breaking away: Michigan RB, team’s leading rusher in 2019 hits NCAA transfer portal

Dustin Schutte

By Dustin Schutte

Published:

Jim Harbaugh might be returning to Ann Arbor for the 2021 season, but one of Michigan’s top offensive players may not make the same decision.

On Monday, Angelique Chengelis of The Detroit News reported that running back Zach Charbonnet has entered his name in the NCAA transfer portal. That’s a significant blow to the Wolverines’ rushing attack, as the sophomore has made a big impact early in his career.

Charbonnet had an outstanding freshman season for the Wolverines, rushing for 726 yards on 149 carries in 2019 to lead the team. His 11 touchdown runs marked a program-best for a freshman.

In 2020, Hassan Haskins emerged as the top ball carrier for U-M, totaling 375 yards and 6 touchdowns on 61 touches. Charbonnet took just 19 handoffs for 124 yards and a score, as Michigan limped to a 2-4 record.

Most of Charbonnet’s contributions came in Michigan’s season opener against Minnesota. The sophomore totaled 4 carries for 70 yards and a touchdown in a 49-24 victory.

Charbonnet also caught 14 passes for 71 yards in two seasons at Michigan.

As a high school prospect, Charbonnet was a high-caliber prospect for Michigan’s 2019 recruiting class. He was a 4-star running back, ranked as the No. 4 player at his position and the No. 46 overall prospect, regardless of position.

The Westlake Village, California native held 25 offers, but ultimately chose Michigan over other big-time programs like Florida, LSU, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Penn State, USC, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin.

Dustin Schutte

Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB