Michigan’s recruiting efforts are ramping up, particularly in the defensive backfield, as they actively pursue several key targets. This is a topic covered extensively in the latest edition of *The Michigan Recruiting Insider*, a podcast hosted by recruiting experts Sam Webb, Steve Lorenz, and Brice Marich. The podcast offers valuable insights into Michigan’s recruitment strategies and specific targets across both football and basketball. During the episode, the hosts dive deep into the Wolverines’ pursuit of various defensive back and wide receiver recruits, with particular emphasis on safety prospects Jordan Young from Monroe, N.C., and Pittsburgh safety commit Elijah Dotson.
Dotson’s recruitment has been particularly interesting, as Brice Marich explains in the episode. Initially committed to Pittsburgh, Dotson has been a Michigan target for quite some time, dating back to his performance at Reggie Wynn’s Rising Star Camp, where he showcased his athleticism by playing both wide receiver and defensive back. Despite his commitment to Pittsburgh, Michigan has continued to pursue Dotson, with increasing interest as the season progresses. Michigan coaches have maintained regular communication with Dotson, and he expressed that his interest in Michigan has grown significantly in recent weeks. As a versatile athlete standing at 6’2″, 180 pounds, Dotson is being recruited primarily as a safety by Michigan, but other schools, including Pitt and Michigan State, view him as a potential cornerback as well. Dotson’s flexibility in the secondary makes him an attractive option for any defense.
One of the key takeaways from Dotson’s recruitment, as noted by the podcast hosts, is Michigan’s pitch to him not solely based on his position but also on his overall athletic ability. Sam Webb mentions that Michigan could take Dotson as a “nickel” defensive back, a critical position in Michigan’s scheme, akin to how Rod Moore transitioned from nickel to safety. The Wolverines are in need of playmakers in the defensive backfield, and Dotson’s ability to play multiple positions, including safety, cornerback, and even wide receiver, gives Michigan ample flexibility in how they might utilize him if he were to join the program.
In addition to Dotson, Michigan is also pursuing several other highly touted defensive backs, including Jordan Young, another versatile player who could fill a similar role in the secondary. Young has drawn attention from several top programs, with Clemson and NC State emerging as his leading options. Michigan, however, remains in the mix, and his visit to Ann Arbor earlier this year gave the coaching staff an opportunity to impress him. Yet, as noted by Brice Marich, one of Young’s concerns is logistical—specifically, how Michigan would accommodate his family’s travel to games, as his family’s ability to see him play is a priority. Michigan’s location, farther from his home than other schools on his list, could be a disadvantage in this regard.
The podcast also highlights Michigan’s recruitment of other defensive back prospects like Colorado commit Alex Graham and Oregon commit Brandon Finney, along with wide receiver targets such as NC State commit Jamar Browder. These players, particularly in the defensive backfield, are being courted by Michigan to round out a strong recruiting class, addressing key needs in the secondary. The Wolverines’ recruiting team has been making a concerted effort to stay in contention for these top athletes, even as some are committed to other programs. The hosts emphasize that Michigan’s recruiting strategy involves offering these players a lot of flexibility, whether they project as defensive backs, athletes, or even offensive players like wide receivers.
In summary, Michigan is putting a major focus on its recruiting efforts, particularly in the defensive backfield, as the team looks to add versatile and highly talented athletes like Elijah Dotson and Jordan Young. The Wolverines’ coaching staff is working to build relationships with these players and their families, aiming to ensure that Michigan remains a top option for them as they make their final college decisions.
