Michigan football has finally added a linebacker.
Former BYU linebacker Max Alford announced on social media on Monday, January 12, that he has committed to the Wolverines. He will join former BYU defensive coordinator Jay Hill, who held the position in Ann Arbor.
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The commitment was first reported by On3’s Hayes Fawcett and forwarded by Alford as his announcement.
Iowa State Cyclones wide receiver Xavier Townsend (4) breaks the tackle of BYU Cougars linebacker Max Alford (30) while scrambling for a first down after receiving the ball in the first quarter at Jack Trice Stadium on October 25, 2025 in Ames, Iowa.
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The 6-foot-1, 230-pound linebacker played in 10 games for BYU this season as a backup, recording 21 tackles (two for loss) and one sack. He had 63 tackles and one sack in three college seasons (starting at Utah State) with two years of eligibility remaining.
Alford is now the 11th player, but first linebacker, that Michigan has acquired through the transfer portal this offseason. Pittsburgh standout Raheem Byers was considered headed to Ann Arbor, but he chose Texas. Michigan then reportedly turned its attention to Cal guard Cade Uluave, although credit transfer issues would appear to prevent that.
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Entering 2026, Michigan’s linebacker corps is depleted, with its top four backs from the 2025 season opener already gone: Cole Sullivan is headed to Oklahoma State, Jimmy Roald, Jeshawn Barham are entering the NFL draft, and Ernest Houseman has elected to retire due to illness.
Tony Garcia is the Wolverines news writer for the Detroit Free Press. Email him at apgarcia@freepress.com and follow him on X @RealTonyGarcia.
This article originally appeared in the Detroit Free Press: Max Alford, former BYU LB, transfers to Michigan football