Go all in on other targets
While it's disappointing to miss on Russell, the fact is, that will open some money for Michigan football to spend somewhere else.
It might not always work like that, but the Wolverines are in a position to land another five-star recruit. That's running back Savion Hiter, the No. 17 overall prospect in the 2026 class, according to the 247 Sports composite rankings.
Hiter is out of Mineral, Virginia. He's 5-foot-11, 205-pounds, and ranked No. 1 among running backs. The experts have said his decision will come down to Michigan and Tennessee.
In the past two classes, the Wolverines have landed a top-200 player at every position but running back. It's time to change that and go all in on Savion Hiter. Whatever it takes.
Davon Benjamin, a top-50 defensive back, and four-star linebacker Nick Abrams are other players that Michigan should try to close with. The Wolverines need a safety. Benjamin, who reminds me of Daxton Hill, could play corner or safety like Andre Clarke. That would lock down the secondary.
It's clear that the Wolverines are still looking to add another linebacker. That position could now be a greater priority now that Michigan won't be paying big money to Russell.