Michigan players discuss NFL Draft, transfer decisions: TE Marlin Klein 'would never transfer from this place'

Michigan Wolverines football players have some big decisions to make. Those that are draft-eligible can stay in college or head to the NFL, and anyone with eligibility left has the choice to remain in Ann Arbor or head to the NCAA transfer portal, college football’s version of free agency.

The uncertainty around the program may have made those decisions even harder, with Michigan firing head coach Sherrone Moore last Wednesday, after an investigation uncovered that he was having an improper relationship with a staff member.

Three seniors with one year of eligibility remaining after this season — tight end Marlin Klein, linebacker Jimmy Rolder and cornerback Zeke Berry — met with the media Friday afternoon at Schembechler Hall, providing the program’s first public comments since Moore’s dismissal. The Wolverines are set to take on Texas in the Citrus Bowl Dec. 31 in Orlando, Fla., the game less than two weeks away.

A Cologne, Germany, native and team captain, Klein — who posted 20 catches for 209 yards and a touchdown in the regular season — said his decision is strictly whether to go pro or stay at Michigan.

“I’d never transfer from this place,” the 6-foot-6, 250-pounder said. “For me, it’s either coming back for my fifth year or taking a chance on going to the NFL. I’m not sure what I’m going to do.

“My plan right now is playing this game for my brothers, for my teammates. I think they need me — they need me more than ever.” 

Michigan’s leading tackler, Rolder has enjoyed a breakout season with 69 stops, 2 sacks, 1 interception and a fumble recovery.

“Definitely in between right now,” Rolder said. “I’m not sure what I’ll end up doing, so I’m just waiting it out and seeing.

“My decision would be [what’s] best for myself and what others think would be best for me. It doesn’t have anything to do with the coaching change or anything.” 

Berry, meanwhile, wasn’t as willing to share on his status, but did mention that it’s in question.

“I haven’t made a decision yet,” Berry said. “I’m still just trying to play this game.”

Berry was asked what he’s looking for in Michigan’s next head coach, and if the hire will have an impact on whether or not he will transfer.

“I’m just looking for a coach who is ready to win a national championship,” he replied, declining to answer the second portion of the question.

The 5-foot-11, 196-pounder was named a second-team All-Big Ten selection by the media. He recorded 28 tackles, 1 interception and 10 pass breakups in the regular season.