Wolverine Digest

Michigan loses recruiting battle for elite defensive lineman as LSU comes out on top

Michigan was not expected to earn the commitment of the elite defensive end, but it is still a significant loss for an elite target
Jerred Johnson|
Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images | Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

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Michigan Wolverines

Michigan's 2026 recruiting class is currently positioned just outside the top 10 nationally, showcasing an impressive effort from the coaching staff to attract high-caliber talent. One of the standout features of this recruiting class is the strength of their defensive line haul, which Rivals has commendably ranked as the sixth best in the nation overall. This notable achievement reflects not only the talent of the players being recruited but also the effectiveness of the coaching staff in identifying and nurturing defensive prospects.

At the forefront of this recruiting success is defensive line coach Lou Esposito. He has quickly become a formidable force on the recruiting trail, known for his unique approach that extends beyond mere football skills. Esposito's family-first mentality has resonated well with recruits and their families, as he effectively establishes genuine connections by discussing their lives and aspirations outside of the sport. This personal touch has proven successful in winning over both athletes and their camps, making them feel valued and understood. But you cannot win them all, and Esposito and Michigan just came up short in the recruitment of an elite talent in Deuce Geralds, who committed to LSU over Michigan and others.

Esposito's engaging style and ability to relate to players have significantly elevated his status among recruiters, placing him in the top three nationally. His strategic focus on building relationships and the foundational skills of players has made him a top-tier talent in the landscape of college football recruiting.

As for the Michigan Wolverines, they are not only landing talented athletes for the defensive line. Still, they are also setting the stage for a dominant future, further strengthening their program in the coming years. Missing out on Geralds is not ideal, but the Wolverines still have some elite players left on their board and could once again find themselves in the top 10 nationally when the dust settles on the 2026 recruiting cycle.

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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.

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