Michigan Football Injury Update: Justice Haynes and Cole Sullivan Ruled Out vs Purdue

The Michigan Wolverines have released their official injury report ahead of their Week 10 Big Ten matchup against Purdue. The update confirms that several key contributors, including running back Justice Haynes and linebacker Cole Sullivan, will not play in Saturday’s game at Michigan Stadium.

This comes as a major development for a Wolverines team riding momentum after a 31–20 win over Michigan State. Head coach Sherrone Moore will now have to reshuffle both offensive and defensive units as Michigan continues its push for the College Football Playoff.

Major Absences in the Michigan Football Injury Update

The official injury report lists multiple starters and rotation players as unavailable for tonight’s game. Out for the Wolverines are safety Rod Moore, running backs Justice Haynes and Micah Ka’apana, linebackers Cole Sullivan and Jimmy Rolder, and offensive lineman Evan Link. Several players, including tight end Hogan Hansen, remain questionable.

In addition, Michigan confirmed several players are out for the season, including wide receiver I’Marion Stewart, running back Donovan Johnson, linebacker Jaydon Hood, offensive lineman Andrew Babalola, edge rusher Devon Baxter, and receiver C.J. Charleston. These long-term injuries have forced Michigan to rely heavily on younger depth pieces and transfers across multiple positions.

Justice Haynes’ absence is particularly impactful. The Alabama transfer and leading rusher played a crucial role against Michigan State, racking up more than 150 yards and two touchdowns. His rib and abdominal injuries, however, will keep him sidelined for this game. Sophomore Jordan Marshall is expected to handle lead back duties, with freshman Jasper Parker providing relief snaps.

Defensively, the Wolverines lose both Cole Sullivan and Jimmy Rolder at linebacker. Rolder was coming off a standout 10-tackle performance against the Spartans, while Sullivan’s injury further depletes Michigan’s depth in the middle of the defense. Expect Georgia transfer Troy Bowles, along with freshmen Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng and Chase Taylor, to fill the gaps next to Ernest Hausmann.

Depth Challenges and Strategic Adjustments

These injuries will test Michigan’s depth and adaptability. The coaching staff faces the task of rebalancing both lines of scrimmage, while maintaining the physical dominance that has defined their recent performances. The offensive line must also adjust with Evan Link out, which could influence pass protection schemes against a physical Purdue front.

For the defense, communication and experience become key. Losing two veteran linebackers and a proven safety like Rod Moore means younger players will see extended playing time under pressure. Michigan’s defensive coordinator is expected to rotate personnel more frequently to manage fatigue and maintain intensity through four quarters.

On offense, Moore’s staff could opt for a more balanced playbook emphasizing quick passes and play-action to relieve pressure from the run game. The Wolverines’ bye week after this matchup provides a small cushion for recovery, but every conference game remains vital in the Big Ten standings.

The Michigan football injury update paints a difficult picture ahead of the Purdue game. With Justice Haynes, Cole Sullivan, and other key starters sidelined, depth and resilience will define whether the Wolverines maintain their unbeaten conference streak heading into November.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is out for Michigan football vs Purdue?

Justice Haynes, Cole Sullivan, Rod Moore, Micah Ka’apana, Jimmy Rolder, and Evan Link are all listed as out.

Q2: What happened to Justice Haynes?

Haynes suffered rib and abdominal injuries during the Michigan State game and will miss the matchup with Purdue.

Q3: Who will replace Cole Sullivan and Jimmy Rolder?

Troy Bowles, Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng, and Chase Taylor are expected to rotate at linebacker alongside Ernest Hausmann.

Q4: Is Hogan Hansen expected to play?

Hansen has been upgraded to questionable after missing last week’s game and may return following the upcoming bye week.

Q5: When is Michigan’s next game after Purdue?

The Wolverines will have a bye next week before facing Northwestern in two weeks.