Even when things are going well, sometimes, not everyone is going to feel the same way.
In 2021, Michigan football closed strongly in its recruiting class by nabbing, not just one, but two defensive linemen in the late period before national signing day. One of those players was New Jersey-based defensive tackle George Rooks.
Rooks redshirted his freshman year and appeared poised for a bigger role in 2022, especially given early playing time. In fact, he recovered a fumble in Week 3 early in the game, indicating he was positioned for bigger things. Since then, however, we’ve seen quite little of Rooks. Freshman defensive tackle Mason Graham and second-year tackle Rayshaun Benny were more firmly in rotation.
On Monday, Rooks announced he is entering the NCAA transfer portal.
— George Rooks (@georgerooks_) December 12, 2022
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Rooks will have three years of eligibility remaining at his new school. Without him in the room, the Wolverines certainly hope Kris Jenkins will return for his senior year, while other younger players, such as Benny, fellow second-year tackle Ike Iwunnah, Graham and first-year behemoth Kenneth Grant, take the mantle.
Rooks joins quarterback Cade McNamara, tight end Erick All and tight end Louis Hansen as transfer portal losses for the Wolverines. Thus far, Michigan has gained one commitment via the portal in former Arizona State offensive lineman LaDarius Henderson.
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