As the snow keeps falling in Ann Arbor, Michigan’s recruiting efforts are heating up - and fast. With spring visits starting to lock in, the Wolverines’ new coaching staff is wasting no time making its presence felt on the trail. Let’s dive into the latest developments from the recruiting front, where a pair of 2027 defensive standouts and a committed tight end are making headlines.
Chicago’s Tavares Harrington Sets Spring Visit to Michigan
When you're trying to build a contender, owning a recruiting hotbed like Chicago is a must - and Michigan’s staff knows it. Enter Tavares Harrington, a four-star safety in the 2027 class who’s quickly becoming one of the most sought-after defensive backs in the country. Ranked No. 137 nationally and No. 6 in Illinois by the 247Sports Composite, Harrington has already racked up more than 40 offers.
He’s set to visit Ann Arbor from March 17-19, giving Michigan the first crack at impressing him before his other scheduled stops at Georgia (June 5) and Alabama (two weeks later). Nebraska is also in the mix, but Michigan’s early visit window could give them a leg up in this race.
Harrington spoke highly of the program’s pedigree, telling reporters:
“The program.
Their production. They are a powerhouse with great coaches and the way they run their program.”
That’s exactly the kind of sentiment you want to hear if you’re a Michigan fan. The Wolverines’ recent success and consistent defensive development are clearly resonating with top-tier talent - and the hope in Ann Arbor is that the visit in March leads to an official one in June.
Texas Linebacker Bryce Breeden Draws Michigan Offer, Plans Visit
Kyle Whittingham and his staff have been aggressive early, and one of their recent targets is 2027 linebacker Bryce Breeden out of Texas. The Wolverines extended an offer during a recent in-person visit from Whittingham and linebackers coach Alex Whittingham.
Breeden, who’s already holding over 25 offers - including from Houston, Michigan State, Northwestern, and Texas Tech - plans to visit Michigan in the spring, with an official visit likely in June.
He’s not yet ranked on the composite, but the offer clearly meant something to him.
“They’re going to be a really strong contender as it gets closer to June,” Breeden said.
What’s drawing him to Michigan? A combination of defensive fit, coaching stability, and something a little more personal.
“Michigan has always been a powerhouse football team. The style of defense they run is a big run-stopping defense, and I would fit right in.
What makes this offer a big deal is that I have always looked up to Michigan football. Playing for the Wolverines would put me closer to my dad.”
That kind of emotional connection, coupled with scheme fit, makes Michigan a real player in Breeden’s recruitment. Don’t be surprised if his name starts climbing up the rankings as more evaluators get eyes on him.
2026 Tight End Commit Mason Bonner Drawing Praise for Leadership
One of the most encouraging signs in a young player? Leadership that goes beyond the stat sheet.
That’s exactly what 2026 tight end commit Mason Bonner has shown. Bonner, who committed in May and signed in December, was voted team captain by every single one of his high school teammates - a rare and telling endorsement.
His coach, Jeremy Bennett, didn’t hold back in his praise:
“We all know he’s big and long and runs routes like a 5-9 slot receiver.
He does all those things, but it was his leadership this year. It was him not letting our team fall to the wayside when there was adversity.”
Bonner helped lead his team to a quarterfinal run, and it’s clear his presence was felt both on and off the field. Offensive line coach Jim Harding recently visited Bonner, and the plan is for the tight end to arrive in Ann Arbor this June after finishing up his senior basketball season.
His coach shared a telling quote from Bonner:
“Coach, I’m a Michigan man.”
That kind of mindset - before he’s even stepped foot on campus - speaks volumes. The Wolverines appear to have a future locker room leader already in the fold.
Quick Hitters
- Michigan recently offered 2027 running back Timmie Lewis and 2027 linebacker Kenneth Simon II, continuing their push to get ahead in the next recruiting cycle.
- On the hoops front, Devin Cleveland, a top-30 prospect and one of the premier shooting guards in the 2027 class, is scheduled to take an unofficial visit on March 8 for the Michigan State game. That’ll be a big moment for both the basketball program and its recruiting momentum.
Bottom Line: Michigan’s new staff is making early inroads with some of the most talented players in the 2027 class - and they’re doing it with a mix of personal connection, program reputation, and a clear vision for development. With visits starting to line up and offers flying out, the Wolverines are setting the tone for what could be a pivotal stretch in their recruiting efforts. Keep an eye on these names - they might be wearing maize and blue before long.