Wolverine Digest

Michigan fanbase in a state of shock as five star spurns the Wolverines for Syracuse

Jerred Johnson|
Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore . Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore . Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images | Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

In this story:

Michigan Wolverines

July 5th was a day Michigan fans had circled on their calendars for weeks. The rabid fan base had their sights set on five-star Miami (FL)- based wide receiver Calvin Russell. All signs were positive for Michigan. Pundits had predicted him for Michigan, and he formed a solid relationship with Bryce Underwood, with the two even following each other on social media; no other schools were contending. Then it all changed. Out of nowhere, Syracuse became a threat, and rumors of their involvement grew louder throughout the day. Then the unthinkable happened.

Russell was set to commit at 9 pm. That time frame came and went, and it continued to drag with no sign of him showing up. Finally, around 9:45 pm, his Instagram went live, and in a confusing, chaotic stream that was often without sound, he ended up committing to Syracuse. Michigan fans and recruiting analysts raced to social media to share their shock over his decision.

A shocking loss for Michigan, and I am sure that NIL played a part; the figures will likely be released over the next few days. Michigan does have a solid, broad receiver class coming in, but landing an elite talent like Russell is genuinely exceptional. Back to the drawing board for Sherrone and his crew. Welcome to the new era of NIL and revenue-sharing recruiting.

- Enjoy more Michigan Wolverines coverage on Michigan Wolverines On SI -

More Michigan News:

Elite running back target continues to toy with Michigan fans, teasing commitment date

Rich Eisen has ominous one-word response to Jeremiah Smith's never lose again promise

Buckeye Jeremiah Smith proclaims he is not a sore loser, promises to never lose to Michigan again

BREAKING: Top-100 elite wide receiver chooses Michigan in major recruiting win

Elite five-star Michigan target shares interesting social media post with Bryce Underwood

Elite Michigan transfer continues to dominate on the international stage

Published
Jerred Johnson
JERRED JOHNSON

Jerred Johnson has served in the United States military for over 23 years. He has a Bachelors in Marketing, a Masters in Management and is in the final phases of completing his Doctorate in Business Administration.

Home/Football