Michigan Wolverines quarterback Davis Warren (16) celebrates a 13-10 win over Ohio State Buckeyes at the end of the NCAA football game at Ohio Stadium in Columbus on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. Credit: Kyle Robertson

Damon Payne's Michigan Commitment Takes Unexpected Turn

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Wright | Last updated Dec 18, 2024 2:14 PM ET

What seemed like a major portal win for Michigan has hit a snag, as former Alabama defensive lineman Damon Payne's signed documents have been removed just hours after his initial commitment Wednesday morning.

The former Belleville (MI) standout, ranked No. 146 overall in the On3 Transfer Portal Industry Rankings, appeared set to return home after three seasons with the Crimson Tide. The timing was particularly notable given Michigan and Alabama's upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl matchup.

Payne, who was the No. 49 overall recruit in the 2021 cycle according to On3's Industry Ranking, spent most of his Alabama career as a rotational piece. After redshirting in 2021, he appeared in six games in 2022 before logging 14 tackles and a fumble recovery across eight games this season. Pro Football Focus tracked him for 288 snaps across all 12 games in 2023.

The defensive lineman's recruitment now appears back open following the removal of his Michigan documents. The development comes just a day after Alabama landed their own portal addition in former Florida defender Kelby Collins.

With the transfer portal remaining open for approximately two more weeks, Payne's ultimate destination remains unclear. What is certain is that a top defensive line target is unexpectedly back on the market.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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