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Michigan eyes flip at position of need after strong run of recent commitments

Apr 18, 2026; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines celebrate during the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines celebrate during the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-Imagn Images | Brian Bradshaw Sevald-Imagn Images

Michigan football is hot on the recruiting trail at just about every position. The Wolverines have gotten commitments on the offensive and defensive line, at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and defensive back in the past few months. One position group that the Wolverines haven't had much recruiting success with is the linebacker position.

Michigan has signed one four-star linebacker since 2025, with it being Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng. The Wolverines are thin at linebacker, and seemingly haven't been prioritizing the position. The new staff appears to recognize that issue, and they're setting their sights on one of the top linebackers in the nation.

Michgan football to get key recruit on campus in flip attempt

The Wolverine's Ethan McDowell reported that Jhadyn Nelson, ranked as the #41 player in the nation per Rivals, will visit Michigan for Victors Weekend (June 19-21). Nelson, a Houston native, has been committed to Texas Tech since March 18th. This is a huge development, as Victors Weekend is the weekend that Michigan has been trying to get many of its top recruits to visit for. It's going to be a major event with a star-studded visitors list.

The fact that Nelson is set to visit for that weekend shows that Michigan has a real shot. Prior to his Michigan visit, Nelson will visit Auburn, Texas, and Texas Tech. If he makes it to Ann Arbor, the Wolverines should have a real shot here. Michigan has a great pitch for Nelson. The Wolverines can offer a very clear path to significant playing time as a freshman due to their depth issues.

There's still a long ways to go in this one - Auburn, Texas, and Texas Tech are all strong NIL schools, and the Texas schools have the local advantage as well as the advantage of also being national title contenders. Michigan will need to make a strong offer here. The Michigan staff has been tremendous at winning over recruits on visits. If Nelson makes it to his visit, Michigan should have at least a fighting chance to land the elite linebacker.

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