Georgia transfer LB Troy Bowles commits to Michigan

BOOOOOOM!!! Michigan picks up another addition in the transfer portal, as former Georgia linebacker Troy Bowles has committed to the Wolverines:

Sherrone Moore and the Michigan Wolverines got another big addition in the transfer portal on Saturday afternoon, landing a commitment from Troy Bowles, a linebacker from the Georgia Bulldogs .

The addition of a linebacker from the transfer portal is no surprise, as it appears Michigan is reportedly going to transition Jaishawn Barham to the edge. Now, Bowles will have the chance to come in and compete with guys like Jimmy Rolder and Cole Sullivan for playing time.

Bowles was a former top-100 prospect in the class of 2023, listed as the No. 80 player overall and the No. 6 player from the state of Florida, according to the 247Sports composite . He played at Jesuit High School in Tampa, and if his last name sounds familiar, that’s because he’s the son of Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles.

As a member of the Bulldogs, Bowles has played sparingly in his first two college seasons. In 2023, he appeared in just five games, including Georgia’s beatdown of Florida State in the Orange Bowl. In 2024, he only appeared in Georgia’s matchups with Clemson and Tennessee Tech.

Back in 2022, 247Sports director of scouting Andrew Ivins had this to say about Bowles:

One of the more complete three-down linebacker prospects to come out of Florida recently given his ability to not only take on blocks and blitz, but also cover tight ends and running backs. Has done nothing but produce since he was a freshman at one of the Sunshine State’s more tradition-rich high school programs totaling over 250 tackles, 12 sacks and 5 interceptions his first three years on varsity. Intelligent player that has a good feel for what’s going on around him, which isn’t surprising given the fact that his father is an NFL defensive coordinator. A face-up tackler with good leg drive that doesn’t let many slip ball carriers out of his hands. Featured primarily as a stand-up edge player early on in his prep career, which in turn taught him how to win with a chop or a simple dip of the shoulder. Comfortable in zone coverage and is quick to anticipate throws. More than capable of making a difference outside of the hashes given his initial burst and will exert plenty of energy over the course of four quarters. Will need to cut down on the few mistakes he makes and keep mastering his craft, but should be viewed as one of the top ‘backers in the class of 2023. Traits and pro-like mentality suggests that he can emerge as a trusted contributor for a Top 25 program and eventually an impact player. NFL upside.

Bowles is the sixth player to commit to the Wolverines out of the portal this winter, joining Indiana wide receiver Donaven McCulley, Cal Poly offensive lineman Brady Norton, Alabama defensive tackle Damon Payne Jr., and Arkansas defensive backs TJ and Tevis Metcalf.

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