'Would Never Belittle The University Of Michigan': Former Wolverine Sets The Record Straight

After a rumor surfaced that he bad-mouthed his former team in order to help land a recruit, the former Wolverine issued a statement on social media to set the record straight.

Although the Wolverines have been extremely productive on the recruiting trail over the last several months, they missed on four-star linebacker Aaron Chiles when he committed to Florida over the weekend. It came as a bit of a shock to Michigan fans considering that many recruiting insiders had the Wolverines as the favorite to land the top prospect from the state of Maryland.  

As is often the case on social media, some folks tried to make sense of Michigan's unexpected miss by indulging in a series of conspiracy theories - including one that involved a former Michigan Wolverine turned Florida Gator. According to the rumor, RJ Moten - who spent three seasons as a defensive back at the University of Michigan - was badmouthing his former program when he hosted Aaron Chiles in Florida during a recruiting visit. 

It didn't take long for the rumor to take off on social media, prompting Moten to address it directly in a Twitter statement. 

I want to come out and address the issue that I did not and would never belittle the University of Michigan. They gave me a chance of a life time, I created bonds and friendships that will last forever with Coach Harbaughs staff and the players on the team.
Thank you.

— rj moten (@rjmoten_) June 18, 2023

"I want to come out and address the issue that I did not and would never belittle the University of Michigan," Moten wrote. "They gave me a chance of a lifetime, I created bonds and friendships that will last forever with Coach Harbaugh's staff and the players on the team. Thank you."

Moten, a three-time letterman who appeared in 29 career games with 15 starts at safety, announced he was entering the transfer portal back in April after three seasons in Ann Arbor. 

"I would like to take the time and thank God for every opportunity he has given me," Moten wrote. I would like to thank the coaching staff and everyone at the University of Michigan for making my time here special. Thank you to the Michigan faithful for your constant love and support. With lots of thoughts and prayer, I will be entering my name in the transfer portal."