Utah All-American DE John Henry Daley joining former coach at Michigan

Field Level Media|published: Thu 8th January, 22:32 2026

Sep 6, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Cal Poly Mustangs quarterback Ty Dieffenbach (7) avoids a tackle by Utah Utes defensive end John Henry Daley (90) during the first quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

Utah All-American defensive end John Henry Daley is following Kyle Whittingham to Michigan.

Daley announced the news on his social media Thursday after wrapping up a visit at Michigan. He also took visits to Notre Dame and LSU, but wound up reuniting with his former head coach and former defensive ends coach Lewis Powell, who has joined Whittingham's Michigan staff.

Go Blue!!?? pic.twitter.com/hfJscm63Qa
— John Henry Daley (@JohnHenryDaley1) January 9, 2026

Daley, ranked as the No. 49 overall prospect and No. 9 edge in this year's portal class, was tied for the Big 12 lead in tackles for loss (17.5) and tied for sixth nationally with 11.5 sacks.

He missed the final two games of the season after sustaining a lower-body injury, but shared when he entered the portal Dec. 30 that he will be healthy in time for spring practice.

Daley brings a pass-rushing boost that Michigan needs in Whittingham's first season. The Wolverines had just 28 sacks this season (54th nationally) and are losing their top three players from the 2024 roster who combined for 16.5 sacks, including 10 from Derrick Moore.

--Field Level Media

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