Michigan football might not be having the best season on the field, but it’s having a pretty good one off of it.
Recruiting was lagging for some time, especially as the Wolverines struggled in the season. However, it’s picked up in a big way recently, starting with the commitment of five-star offensive tackle Andrew Babalola.
But Babalola wasn’t the only big name connected to the maize and blue this week. After losing out on the flip of former South Carolina commit Shamari Earls to Georgia, Michigan never stopped working him, and on Saturday against Michigan State, the 2025 Chester (Va.) Thomas Dale cornerback made it back to The Big House, all while garnering predictions he’d end up wearing a winged helmet once everything was said and done.
And that finally came to fruition, as Earls flipped again, this time from Georgia to Michigan football.
How Earls ranks according to the recruiting services:
|
* |
Ovr |
Pos |
St |
|
|
247Sports Composite |
4 |
88 |
9 |
2 |
|
On3 Industry Ranking |
4 |
65 |
7 |
2 |
|
247Sports |
4 |
67 |
9 |
1 |
|
On3 |
4 |
23 |
4 |
1 |
|
ESPN |
4 |
71 |
9 |
2 |
|
Rivals |
3 |
– |
45 |
10 |
And his scouting report from 247Sports’ Andrew Ivins:
Imposing perimeter corner with the ideal blend of size and speed. Has made an impact in all three phases of the game since he was a sophomore in Virginia’s highest classification and has experience working in a variety of different coverages. Creates release disruption from press and does his best to mirror opponents as their routes progress. Alert when forward-facing, and will play through hands to break up passes, but needs to improve overall awareness when his back is turned to the football. Can get across the field with his top gear and prevent touchdowns while in pursuit. Low-tackling style gets the job done, but will only add more value in run support if he can shed with more authority. Should be viewed as a potential multi-year starter at the Power Four level with legitimate NFL upside. Frame hasn’t been third-party verified, but appears to be over 6-foot. More notably, owns elite markers in both the 55-meter dash and the long jump. Likely will need a developmental year or two to adjust to the collegiate game and refine technique, but could be well worth the wait.
With Earls in the fold, despite Ivins’ evaluation, Michigan very well could have an immediate replacement for Will Johnson should he opt to go pro following his junior year.
Earls is the 18th commit for the Wolverines in the 2025 class and is the third cornerback commit with four-stars Ivan Taylor and Jayden Sanders already pledged.
This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Michigan football flips elite 2025 prospect from elite SEC school
