Michigan football loses director of recruiting Sam Popper to SDSU

Tuesday brought some massive changes behind the scenes to Michigan football. The headline news was that general manager Sean Magee is out after spending the past two years in Ann Arbor, following his earlier stint working under Jim Harbaugh. But that wasn't the only change.

While the Magee news appeared to be either a mutual or one-sided parting of ways, there was another move made behind the curtain that wasn't on the person departing.

As first reported by CBS Sports' Chris Hummer, Michigan director of recruiting Sam Popper has departed the program to become San Diego State's associate general manager.

San Diego State is hiring Michigan Director of Recruiting Sam Popper as its Associate General Manager, a source tells @mzenitz and I for @CBSSports.

He was a @247Sports 30Under30 selection in 2025. pic.twitter.com/1SQC5KLBxV

— Chris Hummer (@chris_hummer) February 17, 2026

Per reports, Popper was extended the offer to remain in Ann Arbor in his role with the maize and blue, but opted for the positional promotion with the Aztecs.

Along with Magee (and Champions Circle), Popper was instrumental in Kyle Whittingham and his new staff being able to retain much of the existing roster, as well as the impending 2026 class. Likely unconnected, but not entirely certain, in the wake of the departures on Tuesday morning, the Wolverines lost one 2027 recruit, quarterback Peter Bourque, considered to be the linchpin of the class at this point.

This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Michigan football director of recruiting Sam Popper leaves for SDSU