Wolverine Digest

Early Signing Day: Michigan Football signs versatile S Kainoa Winston

Trent Knoop|
Kainoa Winston's X

Kainoa Winston committed to Michigan in June and although he took visits to both Penn State and Oregon, the safety was solid with Michigan. The Wolverines could slide Winston into the Nickel if they wanted, but Winston offers versatility that he can play either Nickel or safety in college. Winston owns the Gonzaga school record for the 200-meter dash and will have the ability to run the opposing ball carrier down. Winston made it official by signing with the Wolverines.

Montgomery Village (MD) Gonzaga S Kainoa Winston

Kainoa Winston
On3

Notable Offers:

Penn State, Oregon, Ohio State, Texas, LSU, Miami, and Florida, among others

Scouting report via 247Sports' Andrew Ivins:

A new-age defensive back prospect with the straight-line speed to help combat modern passing attacks. Owns some of the more impressive track times in the 2025 cycle having collected various medals at respected meets around the country. Size hasn’t been third-party verified, but is believed to be under 6-foot and full of muscle. Flies around the field and can get outside the numbers with ease. Quick to locate the football and is not afraid to jump a route. Has proven to be a rather spirited tackler in run support and seems to frequently be seeking out contact. Agile and fluid enough in the lower half to man-up with wide receivers and tight ends, but hasn’t been asked to press a ton on Friday nights. Based on what he has put on tape thus far, should be viewed as a potential defensive playmaker for a Power Five program that could play over the top, in the box, or even in the slot. Likely to add plenty of value on special teams units at the program of his choice.

Film:

You can see his film here

Twitter Announcement:

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Published
Trent Knoop
TRENT KNOOP

Trent began writing and covering Michigan athletics back in 2020. He became a credentialed member of the media in 2021. Trent began writing with Sports Illustrated in 2023 and became the Managing Editor for Michigan Wolverines On SI during the 2025 football season. Trent also serves as the Publisher of Baylor Bears on SI. His other bylines have appeared on Maryland on SI, Wisconsin on SI, and across the USA TODAY Sports network. Trent’s love of sports and being able to tell stories to fans is what made him get into writing.

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