The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/1544538
38 THE WOLVERINE ❱ MAY 2026 BY JOHN BORTON V eteran offensive lineman Jake Guarnera appeared to be a returning stalwart for the Wolverines. His brief entrance into the transfer portal in Jan- uary caused many to do a double take, but the timeout proved just what he needed to reaffirm his commitment to the winged helmet. "I kind of got away from what I was originally thinking when I commit- ted the first time," Guarnera reflected. "Why I came here was because of the academics, the development and stuff like that. I was able to re-find that rea- soning and use that to come back and be a leader. That was one of the things that I talked to my parents about. I want to lead somewhere, and Michigan's a great place for me to lead. "If I came in and then left, just be- cause adversity happened, what kind of a leader am I if I do that?" The young man who stayed proved a solid leader in a short get-to-know- you stretch, according to his new head coach. "He's the center," Kyle Whittingham commented, confirming Guarnera's po- sition switch from the right guard spot where he started 10 games a year ago. "He's had a terrific spring, and really, Guarnera (53) started 10 games at right guard last year but has made the position switch to center and will be snapping to quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) this season. PHOTO BY LON HORWEDEL TIP OF THE SPEAR Newly Minted Center Jake Guarnera Looks To Lead An Improved O-Line