Michigan’s 2026 class hit again with OL Bear McWhorter’s departure
NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...
And now, there are 25.
Michigan football had a signed class of 27 in 2026 just a few days ago, but with the abrupt firing (and subsequent jailing) of now-former head coach Sherrone Moore, everything is somewhat cast into question. While there have been some reaffirmations of commitment to the program (whether it be defensive lineman McHale Blade or the mother of wide receiver Travis Johnson), there are others who are questioning their future.
On Thursday, the Wolverines had their first casualty of the class, with tight end Matt Ludwig getting a release from his NLI. Friday brought a more surprising release from the signing, as Cartersville (Ga.) Cass three-star offensive lineman Bear McWhorter — the second-longest tenured pledge in the class — is choosing to look elsewhere.
BREAKING: Michigan OL commit Bear McWhorter has withdrawn his LOI.
He was one of the Wolverines' first commits of the cycle, picking the program over Alabama.
More here: https://t.co/dXUC8kHa7Tpic.twitter.com/lQ0GW8tUGv
— Ethan McDowell (@ethanmmcdowell) December 12, 2025
McWhorter was an active recruiter in the class — albeit not as much as wide receiver Jaylen Pile and quarterback Brady Smigiel. With his departure, the Wolverines still have several offensive linemen in — Malakai Lee, Marky Walbridge, Tommy Fraumann, and Adrian Hamilton.
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this developing story.
This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Michigan loses second signee as OL Bear McWhorter released from NLI
More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos