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Wolverine Digest

Michigan cracks top six for intriguing 2026 athlete

The Michigan Wolverines join a loaded top six list for the number two rated athlete in the 2026 class
Jerred Johnson|
Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore
Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

On3's Hayes Fawcett recently reported that the number two athlete in the 2026 class has officially narrowed his list to six schools. The six schools are some of the premier programs in the nation, including Tennessee, Oregon, Notre Dame, Clemson, Penn State, and of course the Michigan Wolverines.

Elite 2026 ATH Joey O'Brien is an intriguing prospect to say the least. He stands 6-foot-4 and weighs in at 190-pounds, long, lanky and speedy. Currently he is projected as a defensive back at the next level. However, with his athleticism and length he could see a switch to wide receiver in his future. Or he could follow in the footsteps of the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Travis Hunter, and play both sides of the ball.

O'Brien has shown out on the camp circuit on a regular basis. He was invited to the Navy All-American game and won MVP of the day honors at an On3 camp multiple times. He has lined up against elite wide receivers as a defensive back and shown lock down ability. Then he promptly switched to the offensive side and was able to high point balls over elite defenders.

A player with the ability to affect a game in so many ways is a major asset at the collegiate level. There may even be a scenario where O'Brien could utilize his speed and elusiveness to make an impact on special teams. 247Sports currently has in-state school Penn State with a 75% chance of securing O'Brien's commitment with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish garnering the remaining 25%. Sherrone and his staff will have to commit to this recruitment to pull O'Brien out of Pennsylvania.

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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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