The Ultimate Honor: Michigan’s 2026 Class Boasts Multiple Gatorade Players Of The Year

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The University of Michigan's 2026 football recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the program's strongest hauls in recent memory, not just in terms of star rankings, but in acquiring players who have been recognized as the absolute best in their respective states. A remarkable four signees—Savion Hiter, Malakai Lee, Matt Ludwig, and Tariq Boney—all earned the prestigious Gatorade Player of the Year award, an honor that emphasizes not only athletic dominance but also academic excellence and exemplary character.

This quartet of decorated athletes forms a unique cornerstone for the class, injecting Ann Arbor with proven winners from coast to coast.

The All-Around Excellence of the Award Winners

Earning the Gatorade Player of the Year title is no small feat. It requires statistical domination on the field, a sterling academic record in the classroom, and strong leadership within the community. Landing four such players speaks directly to the national recruiting reach and appeal of the Wolverines’ program under Coach Sherrone Moore.

Savion Hiter – Running Back (Virginia)

Hiter is the headliner, a five-star running back who was named the Gatorade Virginia Football Player of the Year. Known for his game-breaking speed and powerful running style, Hiter repeatedly racked up massive yardage and scores for Louisa County High School. For Michigan’s offense, he represents a high-ceiling playmaker who can immediately compete for snaps and carry on the tradition of elite Big Ten running backs. His award is a testament to his balanced profile as a top student and community contributor.  

Malakai Lee – Offensive Lineman (Hawaii)

Hailing from Honolulu, Malakai Lee anchored the offensive line at Kamehameha Secondary en route to earning the Gatorade Hawaii Football Player of the Year honor. The massive offensive tackle is one of the top linemen in the nation and provides the kind of physicality and stability Michigan values in the trenches. An offensive lineman winning this award highlights an incredibly dominant and high-impact senior campaign, showcasing his ability to elevate an entire unit.  

Matt Ludwig – Tight End (Montana)

From the Big Sky country, Matt Ludwig was recognized as the Gatorade Montana Football Player of the Year. A physically imposing tight end from Billings West, Ludwig is a versatile receiving threat and a punishing blocker. His selection underscores his dual-threat capability, making him a dynamic weapon in both the running game and the passing attack. Ludwig’s state-best award signals his readiness to contribute early to a program that heavily utilizes the tight end position.  

Tariq Boney – Edge Rusher (Washington D.C.)

Tariq Boney, an explosive edge rusher from St. John's College High School, captured the Gatorade Washington D.C. Football Player of the Year award. Boney terrorized opposing quarterbacks and tackles, utilizing elite speed and technique to disrupt the backfield. On the defensive side, winning this accolade is proof of constant, disruptive play that fundamentally changes the outcome of games. Boney is expected to maintain the defensive front's dominance, rotating in a deep and talented unit.

This exceptional haul of four Gatorade Players of the Year demonstrates that Michigan is successfully targeting not just talent, but complete student-athletes who bring a proven track record of elite performance, leadership, and character from diverse corners of the country. Their arrival solidifies the future foundation of the Wolverines’ roster.

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