The right guard, who played a pivotal role for Michigan during the 2024 campaign, shared the news via Instagram on Wednesday.
“I am truly grateful for the support of my family, coaches, and most of all, God, throughout my journey,” El-Hadi wrote. “With one year of eligibility remaining, I have made the decision to return to Michigan for my final season and help bring home another national championship.”
El-Hadi, a former top-100 recruit from Adlai Stevenson High School (Mich.), considered both the NFL Draft and the Transfer Portal but ultimately chose to stay in Ann Arbor. Having played 744 offensive snaps in 2024—more than in any previous season—El-Hadi has accumulated 1,227 snaps over his four-year career, primarily as a guard. His decision solidifies Michigan’s offensive line as one of the most experienced and promising units in college football.
After spending his first three years largely as a reserve, El-Hadi emerged as a key contributor in 2024, starting every game at right guard. His contributions helped power Michigan’s dominant run-first offense, which achieved statement wins over Ohio State and Alabama to close the season. According to Pro Football Focus, El-Hadi earned his highest marks during a rivalry victory over Michigan State and was graded 66.8 overall for the year.
Despite offers from other programs and enticing NIL opportunities, El-Hadi stayed true to his commitment to Michigan. “I was getting offers from other teams… And don’t get me wrong: That money, it looks good. I know my family could use that money,” El-Hadi said before the 2024 season. “But I thought about it. I had to trust in God’s plan… There is something different about Michigan and how they develop players. And you could ask anybody in the league or anywhere: They get you ready for the pros.”
El-Hadi’s loyalty to the Wolverines has been mirrored by other players on the roster, especially during a tumultuous offseason following head coach Jim Harbaugh’s departure to the NFL. The team rallied around offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore, who now leads the program.
“We trusted Coach Moore,” El-Hadi said. “He’s got that mean streak in him. That’s how we want not just the O-line to be, but all of our players to be. We love being the underdogs. We love when people doubt us, just so we could prove them wrong.”
Looking ahead to 2025, El-Hadi is expected to anchor the interior offensive line alongside returning center Greg Crippen. The Wolverines also recently added Ferris State transfer Lawrence Hattar, who will compete for the left guard position. With El-Hadi’s return and a strong supporting cast, Michigan is poised to maintain its championship-level play and contend for another national title.
