Haynes, Marshall Named to Doak Walker Award Watch List

Michigan running backs Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall were each named to the Doak Walker Award watch list on Tuesday, highlighting a backfield that could be among the best in college football this season.

The Doak Walker Award, given annually to the nation’s top college running back, has only been awarded to one Wolverine since its inception — Chris Perry in 2003. Haynes and Marshall are looking to change that, as the two talented backs are expected to form Michigan’s next great rushing tandem under new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey.

Haynes, a transfer from Alabama, has already impressed in Ann Arbor after arriving this offseason. He spent the last two seasons with the Crimson Tide, earning two varsity letters and appearing in 25 games, including 18 at running back. In that time, he totaled 616 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on 105 carries, while adding 17 receptions for 99 yards. A former five-star recruit, Haynes showed flashes of explosiveness in Tuscaloosa, including a 102-yard, one-touchdown performance against Western Kentucky in 2024 and 79 yards with a score against Missouri. He finished his sophomore season with 448 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, along with a consistent role in the passing game.

Since transferring to Michigan, Haynes has been viewed as an immediate impact player. His physical style, versatility, and SEC experience give the Wolverines a proven weapon in a backfield that’s expected to be a key piece of the offense in 2025.

Marshall, meanwhile, enters his redshirt freshman season after a strong finish to his freshman campaign. The Cincinnati native was a top-100 recruit out of Archbishop Moeller High School, where he led his team to three straight regional titles. Despite battling an early injury, Marshall emerged late in the year, highlighted by his breakout performance against Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Making his first career start, Marshall rushed for 100 yards on 23 carries, helping the Wolverines secure a signature win.

Prior to that, Marshall had seen limited action, primarily serving as a kick returner. He tallied 225 return yards on nine attempts, including a 63-yard return against Northwestern. Coaches praised his resilience and growth throughout the season, and expectations are high for a significant leap in year two.

Together, Haynes and Marshall offer a blend of power, vision, and speed that Michigan hopes will carry on the legacy of elite rushing duos in recent program history. With both backs healthy and poised for increased roles, their inclusion on the Doak Walker watch list shows not only individual potential but also the strength of the Wolverines’ backfield heading into the fall.