Michigan Wolverines Enroll Two Players Amid Court Ruling

The Michigan Wolverines are looking to strengthen their roster this collegiate football season by dipping into the transfer portal. Two players, Alex Bauman and Jeremiah Earby, have been granted the ability to play thanks to a temporary restraining order from a Washtenaw County Circuit Court Judge.

Alex Bauman, a former Miami Hurricanes tight end, and Jeremiah Earby, a former Boise State defensive back, are legally cleared to join Michigan. The court decision allowed them to enroll at Michigan and potentially contribute to the team’s current season.

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This judicial decision coincides with their enrollment at the university. A judge in Michigan authorized both players to be rostered. The court order also facilitated their entry into the transfer portal, providing them the opportunity to play.

Eligibility for Earby and Bauman rests on the fact that neither signed with an NFL team. According to Big Ten conference rules, this absence of professional contracts makes their return to college football permissible.

Jeremiah Earby, who recorded 60 tackles for Boise State last season, sought a return after failing to secure a professional opportunity. Following the NFL process, Earby filed a lawsuit allowing his additional collegiate season.

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Bauman, previously part of the Miami Hurricanes 2025 team that contended for a national championship, had a notable career at Tulane preceding his move to Miami. His standout performance in 2024 earned him a spot at Miami.

Michigan’s head coach Kyle Whittingham may opt to officially add these players to the team. As the Wolverines hold a 3-2 record preparing to face Penn State, both players remain enrolled but unsigned as of Wednesday.

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The introduction of these players raises questions about NCAA regulations. Some athletes have similarly received court decisions, but their roster inclusion depends on university discretion. Recent court cases, especially in locales close to universities, highlight the complexity.

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The effectiveness of NCAA guidelines remains contested in courtrooms as commissioners question the rulings that permit extended eligibility. These challenges stir concerns about managing court-granted eligibility extensions.

For the NCAA, legal battles continue as they seek to enforce their regulations. While some argue these athletes could be integrated under new rules, the current chaos in college athletics persists.

Trey Wallace serves as Sr. College Sports Reporter for OutKick.