
jake butt
Jake Butt Criticizes Michigan’s Championship Claim and Harbaugh’s Leadership
Former Michigan tight end Jake Butt calls the 2023 championship an asterisk and questions Jim Harbaugh’s handling of roster challenges.
Jake Butt · Notables desk · October 10, 2026 at 10:42 AM
Former Michigan tight end Jake Butt, a Pickerington, Ohio native who played for the Wolverines from 2013 to 2016, has recently voiced sharp criticism of the program’s recent trajectory. In a candid interview, Butt said the Wolverines’ 2023 national championship carries an “asterisk,” reflecting lingering doubts about the legitimacy of the title amid ongoing controversies.
Butt also directed his frustration at head coach Jim Harbaugh, describing the current state of the roster as “very disappointing.” He highlighted the program’s $50 million roster shortfall and suggested that Harbaugh’s decisions have contributed to a decline in on‑field performance. While acknowledging the talent that once defined Michigan football, Butt warned that without decisive changes, the team risks further setbacks.
The former tight end’s remarks come as Michigan grapples with offensive struggles and a recent loss that has sparked broader debate about the future of its quarterback depth chart. Butt’s perspective adds a former player’s voice to the conversation, underscoring concerns that the program’s recent successes may be more fragile than they appear.