Primer: 2 elite Michigan Football recruiting targets ready to commit
NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...
Welcome to the Recruiting Roundup, our three-times-per-week series breaking down the latest developments on the recruiting trail for the Michigan Wolverines. We’ll keep you up to date on the top targets, the visits they take, the predictions that analysts make, and everything in between. Here’s what you need to know today…
Can Michigan close with Joshua Dobson today?
Wednesday’s biggest storyline centers around 2027 five-star cornerback Joshua Dobson. The No. 2 cornerback and No. 6 overall prospect, per the Rivals Industry Rankings, is set to announce his commitment later today, and Michigan enters decision day firmly in the mix alongside Auburn, South Carolina and Texas A&M.
The Wolverines have surged over the last few months, and Dobson said his official visit only strengthened Michigan’s position.
“The OV was great, they definitely shocked me and I’m going to have a hard decision,” Dobson told Rivals’ Steve Wiltfong ($).
Michigan’s pitch has gone well beyond football. During his recruitment, Dobson has spoken with Charles Woodson, Floyd Mayweather and other notable people connected to the university, something he said separates the Wolverines.
“Man, it’s something special they are building and they want me to be a part of it,” Dobson said. “They put me in front of some big-time people… The connections at Michigan are endless.”
Whether Michigan can finish the job remains to be seen, but head coach Kyle Whittingham and his staff have positioned themselves well with one of the best players in the 2027 cycle.
Michigan still battling Ohio State for CB target
Another major announcement follows tonight when 2027 four-star cornerback Monsanna Torbert announces his college choice. The former Indiana commit has emerged as one of Michigan’s top remaining cornerback targets, with Ohio State being the primary competitor. Michigan has built significant momentum since Victors Weekend thanks in large part to the relationships the new staff has developed.
“Man, I really love coach (Jay) Hill,” Torbert told The Michigan Insider’s Sam Webb ($). “He’s a great coach and he’s done a great job recruiting me. He’s just a genuine person.”
Torbert has also praised the impact of Michigan’s new staff, saying the Wolverines surged up in his recruitment once they arrived in Ann Arbor.
“Once the new staff came in, it gave off a vibe like this staff is different than the other staff. Just being versatile.”
Landing Torbert would give Michigan another blue chip defensive back in the class while also winning a major recruiting battle over the Buckeyes for a player from the state of Ohio.
Michigan has the attention of a blue-chip 2028 TE
Even as the 2027 cycle reaches a critical stretch, Michigan’s staff continues laying the groundwork for future classes. 2028 four-star tight end Jordan McKinley has quickly become one of the country’s most sought-after prospects, holding offers from Michigan, Alabama, Ohio State, Oregon and several others. Despite the attention, the Wolverines already occupy a special place in his recruitment.
“One of my big dream schools,” McKinley told On3’s Ethan McDowell ($). “I’ve seen that game at The Big House on live TV and I wish I was there so bad. Being a part of that type of stuff is just a dream. Michigan is for sure up there as one of my top choices.”
McKinley also praised tight ends coach Freddie Whittingham after receiving his Michigan offer.
“Really professional,” McKinley said. “He had a really good plan for me, explaining my role with the team.”
The Illinois standout plans to return to Ann Arbor for a game this fall, giving Michigan another opportunity to strengthen an already promising relationship early in his recruitment. McKinley ranks No. 261 overall and No. 11 at the tight end position in the 2028 cycle.
More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos