Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore is making significant strides in reshaping the football program’s future, securing key commitments and targeting top talent in the 2026 recruiting cycle.
**Major Recruiting Flips and Commitments**
One of the most notable developments is the commitment of four-star quarterback Brady Smigiel. Previously committed to Florida State, Smigiel’s decision to join Michigan marks a significant win for Moore and his staff. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 215 pounds, Smigiel chose the Wolverines over other prominent programs, including Oregon and Notre Dame. His commitment is considered one of the biggest flips in the 2026 recruiting cycle .
In addition to Smigiel, Michigan has secured commitments from other promising prospects:
* **Brody Jennings**, a three-star cornerback.
* **Bear McWhorter**, a three-star interior offensive lineman.
* **Jaylen Pile**, a three-star wide receiver.
* **Tariq Boney**, a three-star edge rusher.
These additions have propelled Michigan’s 2026 class to rank No. 25 nationally and No. 8 within the Big Ten .
**Strategic Transfer Portal Acquisitions**
Moore has also been active in the transfer portal, addressing immediate needs and adding depth to the roster:
* **Justice Haynes**, a former Alabama running back, brings a physical running style that aligns well with Michigan’s offensive philosophy. Haynes is expected to make a significant impact in the upcoming season .
* **Damon Payne**, a defensive lineman also from Alabama, returns to his home state, adding size and experience to the defensive front .
* **Tre Williams**, a defensive tackle from Clemson, complements Payne in strengthening the interior defensive line .
* **Mikey Keene**, a quarterback from Fresno State, reunites with offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey. Keene’s experience and familiarity with Lindsey’s system provide valuable depth and competition at the quarterback position .
**Pursuit of Top 2026 Talent**
Looking ahead, Moore is targeting elite prospects to further bolster the 2026 class:
* **Jackson Cantwell**, a five-star offensive tackle from Missouri, has included Michigan in his top six schools. Cantwell’s scheduled visit to Ann Arbor indicates genuine interest in the program .
* **Chris Henry Jr.**, a five-star wide receiver committed to Ohio State, remains on Michigan’s radar. Moore’s visit to Henry’s high school suggests an ongoing effort to sway the talented receiver .
**Conclusion**
Under Sherrone Moore’s leadership, Michigan is making concerted efforts to strengthen its football program through strategic recruiting and transfer portal acquisitions. By securing key commitments and targeting top-tier talent, the Wolverines aim to position themselves as a formidable force in the Big Ten and on the national stage.
Sherrone Moore, Michigan pull off one of biggest flips in 2026 recruitin “Michigan news: Key Harbaugh assistant returns, transfer RB is top fit, Sherrone Moore’s rank”
Michigan Wolverines Transfer Portal: Top 5 players who’ve joined Sherrone Moore’s roster for 2025 ft. Justice Haynes”
“Mikey Keene”
Sherrone Moore’s recruiting trail for 2026 class gets a boost with No. 1 prospect’s March visit to Michigan”
Michigan Football: Sherrone Moore visits school of top Ohio State commit Chris Henry”