Michigan Recruiting Update: Recruits React as Wolverines Navigate Coaching Change
It’s been a whirlwind stretch in Ann Arbor. The sudden firing of Sherrone Moore has sent shockwaves through the Michigan football program, and while it’s only been six days, it’s felt like a full offseason compressed into one chaotic week. Now, the Wolverines are in recovery mode - working quickly to stabilize the program and, perhaps most importantly, to keep their top recruits on board.
Here’s where things stand with Michigan’s recruiting classes as the dust begins to settle.
2026 Class: Mixed Emotions, But the Block M Still Holds Weight
When a head coach is dismissed, the ripple effect on recruiting is immediate. Michigan’s 2026 class is no exception. Some of the program’s top commits have spoken out since Moore’s departure, and while reactions vary, there’s a clear theme: the Michigan brand still carries serious weight.
Four-star edge rusher McHale Blade didn’t mince words when asked about his commitment:
“At the end of the day, it’s still Michigan,” Blade said.
“I chose this school for reasons far beyond football, so I’m not really too worried about things that’s going on. I chose Michigan because of that Block M - that logo - so I’m not really too worried.”
That kind of perspective is gold for a program in transition. Blade’s loyalty to the institution, rather than just the coaching staff, offers some stability during a volatile time.
Three-star offensive lineman Tommy Fraumann echoed a similar sentiment:
“Michigan always will be my home. It has made such an impact on my life and how it’s played out.”
For Fraumann, this is about more than football. His emotional connection to the school suggests that his commitment is unlikely to waver, even amid uncertainty.
But not everyone is ready to make that call just yet.
Three-star edge rusher Tariq Boney is taking a more cautious approach:
“I have no comments right now. I still have to talk with my family.”
That’s understandable. With the coaching future still in flux, recruits like Boney are looking for clarity before making any long-term decisions. And until Michigan locks in its next head coach, that kind of hesitation will likely continue among some prospects.
2027 Class: Patience and Optimism from Top Targets
While the 2026 class is directly feeling the impact of Moore’s exit, the 2027 group is watching from a slight distance - still early in their recruiting journeys, but paying close attention nonetheless.
Four-star edge rusher Rashad Streets, one of the most coveted players in the 2027 cycle, remains intrigued by what Michigan has to offer:
“I’m still interested in Michigan.
The campus and facilities are top notch,” he said. “Of course, I’m interested to see what happens with the staff and coaches.
Right now, I’m just being patient. There has been a lot of changes lately with coaches.”
That’s a mature, measured response from a young recruit. Streets isn’t jumping ship, but he’s keeping his eyes open - as any top prospect should.
Meanwhile, four-star cornerback Allen Evans is taking the coaching change in stride:
“That takes no interest that I have in Michigan away! I know whoever ends up as coach will be great!!”
Evans’ enthusiasm is a good sign for Michigan’s long-term recruiting health. If the program can maintain that kind of energy with its younger targets, the coaching transition might not be as damaging as it could’ve been.
Family Ties: Michigan Offers Brother of Current DL
In the midst of all the upheaval, Michigan is still pushing forward on the recruiting trail - and leaning into family connections to do it.
Last week, the Wolverines extended an offer to Ndi Etta, the younger brother of current Michigan defensive lineman Enow Etta. While Enow hasn’t seen a ton of playing time yet, he’s expected to take on a bigger role in the coming seasons. Now, there’s a chance the Etta brothers could share the field in Ann Arbor.
For Ndi, the Michigan offer hit differently:
“It boosted it a lot, even with the stuff going on with Sherrone … obviously, I love Michigan, but now I just think it boosts even more.”
That kind of reaction speaks volumes about the power of the Michigan brand - and the importance of family ties in recruiting.
Ndi also took note of how the current players are sticking together as the Wolverines prepare for their bowl game against Texas:
“All of their players are still there.
Nobody’s transferring. So, obviously, it means something to the players.”
That unity hasn’t gone unnoticed. And in a time when transfer portals and coaching changes can unravel a locker room, Michigan’s ability to hold the line is a strong selling point for recruits.
What’s Next?
The next few weeks will be critical. Michigan’s coaching search is ongoing, and every day without a new hire adds a layer of uncertainty for recruits and their families. But the early signs suggest that the Wolverines are doing what they can to keep their classes intact - and that the Block M still carries serious influence.
Recruits are watching. Some are reaffirming their commitments, others are waiting to see who takes the reins.
But one thing’s clear: Michigan still matters. And in the world of college football recruiting, that’s half the battle.