Michigan's 2026 season has hit an early roadblock. Head coach Kyle Whittingham announced Thursday that running back Micah Ka’apana will miss the entire year after suffering a major leg injury.

On Thursday, Whittingham confirmed that running back Micah Ka’apana sustained a major leg injury and will be absent from the season. Whittingham did not specify the nature of the injury. 

“One big downer, Micah is out for the season. We’ll miss him,” Whittingham said. “It’s unfortunate, but so far we’ve been healthy other than that. That’s a loss for us, something that I’m sure he’ll return from and be back for the ’27 season. It’s a shame because he was having a good spring; he’ll be missed.”

The timing of his injury stings even more as Whittingham stated that the team was productive and making progress.

“Spring ball, two-thirds through, 10 down, five to go,” Whittingham added. “It’s been a very productive first 10 practices. A lot of positives, offense is progressing, defense is progressing. Everything’s on track.”

Ka’pana has spent the last two seasons with the Wolverines and made a real mark last year. 

He made two receptions for 12 yards in both seasons combined. In 2025, Ka’pana played in four games and recorded 10 carries for 38 rushing yards, showing progress and promise for the 2026 season.

Limited by injury for much of last season too, Kahuku Ka'apana also found himself stuck behind the pecking order, with Justice Haynes holding down the starting role and Jordan Marshall serving as the primary backup.

He joined the Wolverines from Bishop Gorman, Las Vegas, and displayed his potential within the limited capacity in which he played.

His absence is one of the earliest hurdles, and the team is preparing to face many more.

The Michigan Offense Is Making Progress With Key Players in Place

According to reports, Whittingham, who joined the Wolverines in 2025, believes that the running back room elevates the team immensely.

While Ka’pana will be off the field recovering, reports suggest the roster will consist of lead rusher Jordan Marshall, freshman Savion Hiter, and Bryson Kuzdzal. 

Last season, Kuzdzal was a force to be reckoned with. He started two games, rushed 76 times, and scored four touchdowns for 326 yards.

Whittingham also revealed which players have pleasantly surprised him early on in practise. 

With quarterback Colin Hurley’s departure, Bryce Underwood will be stepping in as the starting QB. And currently, there is no other reliable No.2 than freshman Tommy Carr.

“I would say Tommy Carr has been a pleasant surprise for us. He’s really progressed throughout spring and emerged as, at least for right now, the number two guy,” Whittingham said.

Currently, Whittingham and the team are preparing for their April 18 spring game.

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote