Michigan Wolverines news: No. 1 recruit in 2026 impressed with Michigan football, more

Michigan football landed the top-ranked player in the 2025 recruiting class and the Michigan Wolverines are moving up the list of the No. 1 overall recruit in 2026, Jackson Cantwell.

The five-star offensive tackle from Nixa, Missouri, is the definition of elite. He's 6-foot-7, 300 pounds, and is a Missouri state record holder for the shot put. His dad was also an Olympic thrower.

Cantwell released a top 12 over the summer and Michigan football was one of the teams to make the cut. Missouri, Nebraska, and Georgia have been among the most serious contenders. Ohio State, which hosted Cantwell for a visit recently, is also in the mix.

Yet, Cantwell praised the development of Michigan football in an interview with Steve Wiltfong of On3.com following his visit. "They're heading up the list," Cantwell told Wiltfong. The 300-pounder also mentioned how much Michigan football likes to run the ball.

There is a long way to go in this recruitment but the Michigan Wolverines are at least in a good position and have to be among the top five teams heading into stretch run (post junior season).

Michigan landed one five-star tackle in the 2025 class and is looking to add another by flipping Alabama commitment Ty Haywood.

Cole Cabana commits to Minnesota

Running back Cole Cabana, one of the top players in the state of Michigan in the 2023 class, entered the transfer portal this offseason and has found a new home in Minnesota.

The four-star recruit has just two rushing attempts for six yards during his Michigan football career. Yet, he's got talent, not just as a runner, but as a receiver too. The Wolverines could have probably found a role for him next season, but Cabana was looking for a fresh start and found one in another Big Ten program.

Michigan Wolverines in the NFL

It was a solid day for former Michigan football players in the NFL. Nico Collins caught two touchdowns in the Houston Texans win on Sunday. Mike Sainristil, the rookie, intercepted a pass for the Washington Commanders, while Rashan Gary had a sack on Sunday night football.