In a stunning development, Michigan Wolverines star running back Kalel Mullings has announced his decision to forgo his senior season and enter the 2025 NFL Draft. The news comes as a major blow to the Wolverines, who were counting on Mullings to lead their offense next fall.
Mullings, who led Michigan in rushing this season with 948 yards and 12 touchdowns, reportedly did not travel with the team to Tampa for their upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl matchup against Alabama on New Year’s Eve. His absence will leave a gaping hole in the Wolverines’ backfield.
A Memorable Michigan Career
During his time in Ann Arbor, Mullings established himself as one of the premier running backs in college football. His bruising running style and explosive playmaking ability made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Mullings saved his best performance for last, gashing Ohio State for 116 rushing yards and Michigan’s lone touchdown in a 13-10 upset victory over the Buckeyes on November 30th. It was a fitting exclamation point on a stellar Wolverines career.
Kalel Mullings was the heart and soul of our offense. Replacing his production and leadership will be a tall task.
– Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh
The Future of Michigan’s Backfield
With Mullings off to the NFL, the Wolverines will now turn to a committee approach at running back. Expect rising sophomores Donovan Edwards and Blake Corum to take on expanded roles in the offense next season.
- Edwards flashed potential as a change-of-pace back, totaling 320 yards from scrimmage.
- Corum saw limited action but averaged an impressive 6.8 yards per carry.
While both are talented, neither possesses the rare combination of size, speed, and power that made Mullings special. Coach Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Josh Gattis certainly have their work cut out for them this offseason to remake the running game.
Mullings’ NFL Outlook
As for Mullings, he projects as a Day 2 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. His violent running style and ability to run through tackles is reminiscent of pros like Derrick Henry and Nick Chubb. He also improved significantly as a receiver this year, showing he can be a true three-down back at the next level.
However, there will be questions about his durability and long-term productivity given his physical playing style. Mullings battled various minor injuries throughout his college career, never playing more than 11 games in a season. NFL teams will have to weigh his immense talent against those concerns.
The Bottom Line
While Mullings’ early departure undoubtedly hurts Michigan in the short term, the Wolverines recruit as well as any program in the country. Coach Harbaugh will find new stars to carry the offense, even if they can’t fully replicate Mullings’ singular impact right away.
For Mullings, striking while his draft stock is high is a smart business decision. Running backs only have so many carries in their bodies, so maximizing your earning potential early in your career is crucial. He gave Michigan three outstanding years – now it’s time for Kalel Mullings to go get paid in the NFL.
