Big things are brewing in Ann Arbor for the Michigan Wolverines' backfield, and all eyes are on five-star running back Savion Hiter as he prepares to take center stage this season. But before we dive into what Hiter might bring to the field, it's worth taking a trip down memory lane to see how the program's top-ranked running back recruits have fared over the years. From stunning flashes of brilliance to heartbreaking "what ifs," the history of five-star backs at Michigan is a story of highs, lows, and everything in between.

Let's start with the biggest "what if" in Wolverines lore: Kelly Baraka. Hailing from Portage Northern High School, Baraka remains the highest-rated running back commit in program history. He was an explosive, versatile talent who seemed destined for greatness. But unfortunately, his college career was over before it even began. Baraka never suited up for a single game after being arrested twice for marijuana possession before his freshman season. The 6-foot, 180-pounder was ultimately dismissed from the team, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.

Fast forward a few years, and the Wolverines brought in another highly-touted prospect: Kevin Grady from East Grand Rapids High School. Grady burst onto the scene as a freshman in 2005, racking up 483 yards and five touchdowns on 121 carries while filling in for an injured Mike Hart. At 5-foot-10 and 225 pounds, he looked like a powerhouse in the making. But injuries and a DUI arrest derailed his momentum, and Grady never quite recaptured that early magic. It's a classic reminder that even the brightest stars can face unexpected hurdles.

Next up was Derrick Green, a standout from Hermitage High School who chose Michigan over heavyweights like Auburn and Tennessee. Expectations were sky-high for the 6-foot, 220-pound back, and he delivered in flashes—but consistency proved elusive. Over three seasons, Green tallied 898 yards and seven touchdowns before transferring to TCU for his final year of eligibility. Sometimes, the transition from high school star to college legend isn't as smooth as fans hope.

And then there's Donovan Edwards, who turned the script completely around. A Michigan native, Edwards helped lead the Wolverines to three straight Big Ten titles from 2021 to 2023 and a national championship in 2023. He finished his illustrious career with 3,179 total yards and 25 touchdowns, etching his name into program history with iconic performances against Ohio State in 2022 and Washington in 2023. Edwards proved that with the right mindset and opportunity, a five-star recruit can absolutely live up to the hype—and then some.

As Savion Hiter steps into the spotlight this year, he carries the weight of that legacy. Will he follow in the footsteps of Edwards, or will his story take an unexpected turn? One thing's for sure: Michigan fans are ready to watch the next chapter unfold.