As the New Year approaches, many individuals are setting resolutions and joining gyms, while the Michigan Wolverines are focused on recruiting, vying for some skilled players, including one committed to a prestigious college football program.
Michigan aims to recruit five-star Alabama OL commit
The Wolverines have already secured a commitment from five-star offensive tackle Andrew Babalola for the 2025 class but are targeting another top talent. Reports from On3’s Steve Wiltfong indicate that Michigan is among several schools attempting to convince Ty Haywood to switch his commitment from Alabama, with Texas Tech also in pursuit. Notably, Florida State has recently entered the race, and Haywood is considering a visit to their campus soon.
Last month, The Wolverine’s EJ Holland reported that Haywood had planned to visit Michigan for the Northwestern game but canceled due to his high school team’s playoff games. Recently, he topped the ranking of available 2025 recruits, highlighting his importance as a highly-rated prospect in a critical position.
In January, Haywood is scheduled to visit both Michigan and Texas Tech, with a potential visit to Florida State in the works as well. According to the 247Sports composite rankings, he is ranked 18th overall, fourth among offensive tackles, and sixth for Texas recruits. As an elite tackle, he could be a key asset for an offensive line, prompting multiple schools to try to secure his commitment.
Four-star edge set to visit Michigan next month
Zahir Mathis, a 2025 four-star edge rusher, is also planning a visit to Michigan in January, as noted by Wiltfong. This trip is a rescheduled one from an earlier date.
He also plans visits to Florida State, UCLA, and Oregon before making a final decision, with Penn State, his hometown team, in the running as well, a school he has visited multiple times.
While recent statements from these players are lacking, their upcoming visits amidst Michigan’s recruiting momentum from Bryce Underwood’s commitment and the victory over Ohio State are promising indicators. Further updates on both recruits will follow.
Quick Hits
A report from On3’s Holland reveals that 2026 four-star tight end Brock Harris intends to visit Michigan after the dead period ends in January. This will mark his third visit to campus, as he is a significant target for the Wolverines in his class. “I’m going to come out with a top-10, and they’ll be in it,” Harris mentioned about Michigan last month, praising their use of tight ends and the enjoyable college town atmosphere.
Additionally, 2026 four-star offensive lineman Darius Gray has recently included Michigan in his top-12 list.