Michigan just landed a major in-state win for its 2027 recruiting class, securing a commitment from four-star EDGE Recarder Kitchen out of Muskegon (Mich.) during his visit for the Wolverines’ rivalry showdown against Ohio State.
This is a meaningful pickup for a few reasons. Not only is Kitchen the first in-state prospect to commit to Michigan’s 2027 class, but he’s also one of the highest-ranked juniors in the state - and he fits exactly the kind of mold the Wolverines have thrived with in recent years.
Why Kitchen Picked Michigan
The foundation of Kitchen’s decision was built on trust and communication - two things that head coach Sherrone Moore and defensive line coach Lou Esposito clearly prioritized. According to Kitchen, the Michigan staff didn’t just talk football - they asked about life, about who he is outside the game. That kind of relationship-building stood out in a big way.
“The number one thing in my recruitment was communication and loyalty,” Kitchen said. “They always talked to me about life after football and that’s what I loved most.”
That off-the-field connection was reinforced by on-field familiarity. Kitchen has been on campus multiple times and worked directly with Esposito and the defensive staff during camp last summer. That gave both sides a chance to evaluate fit - and clearly, the fit was there.
Who Else Was in the Mix?
Kitchen had no shortage of options. Penn State, Louisville, and Wisconsin were all in the conversation this fall, and each made a push for the talented EDGE. But in the end, Michigan’s consistent presence and personal approach won out.
Where Kitchen Ranks
Make no mistake - this is a blue-chip recruit. Kitchen is currently ranked by 247Sports as the No. 2 junior in Michigan, the No.
17 EDGE nationally, and No. 127 overall in the Top247. The 247Sports Composite has him slotted similarly, placing him at No. 110 overall in the country.
That kind of ranking puts him firmly in four-star territory and makes him one of the cornerstones of Michigan’s early 2027 class.
How He Fits at Michigan
This commitment is also a signal of where Michigan is heading with its in-state recruiting. After a quieter year in 2026, the Wolverines appear ready to reassert their presence locally - and Kitchen is a strong opening statement.
Physically, he checks a lot of boxes. He’s got the length, athleticism, and versatility that Michigan defensive staffs have traditionally valued.
Think Mike Morris - a guy who can play with his hand in the dirt or stand up on the edge. Kitchen has already lined up at outside linebacker, some MIKE, tight end, and of course, as a traditional defensive end at Muskegon.
That flexibility is something Esposito and the staff clearly like.
“They said I’m kind of both - hand-down and standing up - because I’m athletic enough to do all of the above,” Kitchen said. “I’m just basically everything - up, down, whatever.”
That “do-it-all” ability gives Michigan options. Whether they want to use him as a pass-rushing specialist, a hybrid linebacker, or a more traditional EDGE, he’s got the tools to adapt.
What Makes Kitchen Stand Out
What separates Kitchen isn’t just his size or athleticism - it’s his motor and mindset. He’s a multi-sport athlete with a wrestling background, which always bodes well for leverage and hand usage in the trenches. He’s also flashed some surprising skills on offense, showing off his hands and route-running in 7-on-7 play.
He made a splash as a freshman, earning early national attention, but dealt with some injuries as a sophomore that slowed his momentum. Still, he remained a four-star and bounced back strong as a junior, finishing the year on a high note with solid performances against top-tier competition.
Muskegon head coach Shane Fairfield sees the total package - not just a high-upside athlete, but a leader who’s earned respect in the locker room.
“He definitely passes the eye test, but I love his work ethic in the weight room,” Fairfield said. “I love his leadership, his accountability. We love his coachability and how he’s taken on a leadership role as a junior after starting as a freshman in the state finals.”
Fairfield also pointed out Kitchen’s willingness to put in extra work - staying after practice, asking questions, and always looking for ways to improve. That kind of mindset is what turns potential into production at the college level.
Bottom Line
Recarder Kitchen is the kind of in-state talent Michigan can’t afford to let slip away - and they didn’t. With a frame built for Big Ten football, a skill set that fits multiple defensive looks, and a personality that resonates with coaches and teammates alike, he’s a foundational piece for the Wolverines’ 2027 class.
And if his development continues on its current trajectory, don’t be surprised if he becomes a name Michigan fans get to know very well - and very soon.