Alabama DT transfer Damon Payne is expected to transfer to Michigan per Matt Zenitz & Chris Hummer of 247Sports. He was a 5 ⭐️ 247 Composite Recruit in the 2021 recruiting class out of Belleville HS (MI).

Alabama DT transfer Damon Payne is expected to transfer to Michigan per Matt Zenitz & Chris Hummer of 247Sports. He was a 5 ⭐️ 247 Composite Recruit in the 2021 recruiting class out of Belleville HS (MI).

Alabama DT Damon Payne Expected to Transfer to Michigan

In a significant development for Michigan football, Alabama defensive tackle Damon Payne is reportedly set to transfer to the Wolverines, according to Matt Zenitz and Chris Hummer of 247Sports. Payne, a former 5-star recruit in the 2021 class, was a standout at Belleville High School (MI) before committing to Alabama. His return to his home state could have major implications for Michigan’s defensive line.

Payne was the No. 1 player in Michigan and the top-rated defensive tackle in the nation for the 2021 recruiting class, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. At 6-foot-4 and 303 pounds, he was praised for his power, agility, and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His recruitment out of high school was highly contested, with programs like Ohio State, Michigan, and Alabama vying for his commitment. Ultimately, Payne chose the Crimson Tide, joining their storied football program known for producing elite defensive linemen.

Despite his high-profile recruitment, Payne saw limited action at Alabama, appearing in just a handful of games over two seasons. The depth and competition on Alabama’s defensive line made it challenging for him to secure significant playing time. Payne’s decision to transfer provides him with an opportunity to reset his college career and potentially play a more prominent role at Michigan.

For the Wolverines, Payne’s addition could be a game-changer. Michigan’s defense has been a strength under head coach Jim Harbaugh, and Payne’s skill set fits perfectly into their scheme. His size and athleticism make him a versatile option capable of clogging running lanes and pressuring quarterbacks. With Michigan poised to contend for another Big Ten title and a College Football Playoff berth, Payne’s arrival bolsters a defensive unit already loaded with talent.

Payne’s return to Michigan also underscores the growing trend of players returning to their home states through the transfer portal. For the Wolverines, this move signals their ability to attract top-tier talent, even after initial recruiting battles are lost.

The transfer is not yet official, as Payne would need to finalize the process through Michigan’s admissions and compliance offices. However, if the reports are accurate, Payne could soon don the maize and blue, reuniting with his home-state fanbase and making an immediate impact on Michigan’s defensive line.