CBS Sports tabs Michigan football WR Donaven McCulley as most important incoming transfer
Michigan football brought in several impactful transfers this offseason. From quarterback Mikey Keene to defensive tackles Damon Payne and Tré Williams to linebacker Troy Bowles to running back Justice Haynes, there are several likely key contributors to the 2025 team ready and raring to go.
But if Michigan is to have a successful season, it likely means one stood out above the pack.
The Wolverines are counting on the defense continuing to dominate but retooled the offense in hopes that the passing game will be revamped. At the top, Sherrone Moore fired offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell and replaced him with Chip Lindsey — who had successful stints at Auburn, UCF, and North Carolina — while also making a splash landing five-star QB Bryce Underwood. But even if the offensive scheme and quarterback are better, the maize and blue passing attack will only be as good as their pass catchers.
Thus, when CBS Sports put together a list of the most impactful transfers that College Football Playoff contenders brought in, it wasn't Haynes — the former Alabama tailback — who earned top marks for the Wolverines, it was former Indiana wide receiver Donaven McCulley.
16. Michigan
Donaven McCulley, WR, Indiana
No Michigan wide receiver hit the 250-yard barrier last season. Only one (Tyler Morris) even had 150 yards receiving. The Wolverines must get better at receiver, especially when you consider tight end Colston Loveland (56 catches, 582 yards, 5 TDs) is off to the NFL. That's what makes McCulley so important. McCulley was one of the best pass catchers in the Big Ten two years ago, reeling in 48 passes for 644 yards and six touchdowns. But he only played two games for Indiana last year before opting to sit out and transfer. There's a big question mark around whether McCulley can recapture his 2023 form. If he can, the 6-5, 203-pounder is exactly the type of go-to target Michigan lacked in 2024. If not ... Michigan will have to hope anyone can step up for an unproven quarterback room.
McCulley will pair with fellow incoming transfer Anthony Simpson from UMass, as well as returning wideouts Semaj Morgan, Fredrick Moore, Kendrick Bell, Channing Goodwin, Peyton O'Leary, I'Marion Stewart, and a trio of freshmen in Jamar Browder, Andrew Marsh, and Jacob Washington.
McCulley has earned rave reviews all offseason, having arrived in winter and participated in spring ball. If he can be even in the ballpark of the expectations heaped upon him, mig has a chance to right the ship after an 8-5 season a year ago.
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