Michigan Football Lands Top Tight End Transfer JJ Buchanan

Wolverines add versatile Utah Ute to bolster receiving corps

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:52am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a college football player in motion, with their body broken down into overlapping geometric shapes in shades of maize, blue, and other vibrant colors, representing the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the player's skills.Michigan's new tight end transfer JJ Buchanan brings a unique blend of size, speed, and versatility that could reshape the Wolverines' offensive strategy.Las Vegas Today

Michigan Football has secured another top transfer, landing tight end JJ Buchanan from the University of Utah. Buchanan, a rising sophomore, made an immediate impact as a true freshman in 2025, racking up 26 catches for 427 yards and 5 touchdowns. While listed as a tight end, Buchanan's versatility allows him to line up all over the field, spending significant snaps in the slot and as an outside receiver. His unique skill set could help revolutionize Michigan's offensive strategy.

Why it matters

Buchanan's addition is a major coup for the Wolverines, who are looking to replenish their receiving options after losing several key players to the Transfer Portal and the NFL Draft. His size, athleticism, and versatility make him a valuable asset that could create mismatches for opposing defenses.

The details

As a former four-star recruit from Las Vegas, Buchanan chose Utah over offers from schools like BYU, Cal, Oregon State, Iowa State, and Boise State. In his freshman campaign, he demonstrated exceptional playmaking ability, lining up all over the formation and proving to be a dynamic threat in the passing game. Buchanan's ability to play both tight end and wide receiver will give Michigan's offense added flexibility and unpredictability.

  • Buchanan played in all 13 games for Utah in 2025, his freshman season.
  • He announced his transfer to Michigan in April 2026.

The players

JJ Buchanan

A rising sophomore tight end who transferred from the University of Utah to the University of Michigan. Buchanan made an immediate impact as a true freshman in 2025, showcasing his versatility by lining up all over the formation and producing 26 catches for 427 yards and 5 touchdowns.

Kyle Whittingham

The head coach of the University of Utah football team, where Buchanan played in 2025 before transferring to Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“Buchanan's size and frame would allow him to develop into a threat at either outside receiver or a hybrid WR/TE, creating mismatches for opposing defenses.”

— Dan Sorensen, 247Sports Analyst

“Buchanan was one of the region's best two-way players, showcasing high-level body control and speed.”

— 247Sports Scouting Report

What’s next

Buchanan will join the Michigan Wolverines for the 2026 season, where he will look to make an immediate impact and help the team build on their recent success.

The takeaway

Michigan's ability to land top talent from the Transfer Portal, like JJ Buchanan, demonstrates the program's continued ability to reload and remain a contender in the Big Ten. Buchanan's unique skill set could provide a significant boost to the Wolverines' passing attack.