The Michigan Wolverines are set to face Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl on New Year’s Eve; however, they will be without one of their standout offensive players.

Running back Donovan Edwards announced to WXYZ-TV on Saturday that he will not be participating in the game. “I just have a lot on my mind right now,” Edwards explained (h/t ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg). “I haven’t really had the opportunity to look back and reflect, but for the most part, I’ve always been grateful for all the support that the Michigan fans have given me. … This place will always have a special place in my heart.”

Edwards is not the only player opting out of the bowl game. Defensive tackle Mason Graham, cornerback Will Johnson, and tight end Colston Loveland have also decided to shift their focus to the NFL draft.

According to B/R’s NFL Scouting Department, Graham is ranked as the No. 2 overall player, Johnson as No. 5, and Loveland as No. 13 on their latest big board of top prospects for the 2025 NFL draft.

In contrast, Edwards has not been recognized among the top 100 overall players or top eight running backs for the upcoming draft.

Edwards entered the season with high expectations following his impressive performance of 104 yards and two touchdowns in the Wolverines’ national championship game victory over Washington last season.

Unfortunately, he found himself largely overshadowed by Kalel Mullings in Michigan’s rushing attack during the 2024 season.

Throughout the campaign, Edwards failed to surpass the 100-yard mark in any game, and only reached 80 yards on two occasions against Arkansas State and Washington. In the pivotal win against Ohio State, he managed only four carries for 11 yards, indicating a lack of significant involvement in key moments for Michigan.

Despite not playing in the bowl game against Alabama, Edwards will always be cherished by Wolverines fans for his contributions to last season’s national championship run.