The paradigm is changing. Although Bryce Underwood is a prospect from nearby Belleville (Michigan) State, the Wolverines flipping the five-star recruit and No. 1 pick in the 2025 class will have positive implications for Michigan football.
Making sure everyone in the college football world knows that the maize and blue are a bad deal, the defending national champions took some time off following Underwood’s turnaround of LSU to try again against Brian Kelly and the Tigers. One of the state’s top prospects, New Orleans (La.) 2025 five-star Edna Kerr defensive lineman Jahkeem Stewart appears to be leaning toward LSU, Ohio State, U.S.C.And Oregonbut Michigan put its hat back in the ring by redeclaring its previously issued offer..
Here’s how Stewart ranks according to recruiting services:
|
* |
Ovr |
Pos |
st |
|
|
247Sports Composites |
5 |
16 |
3 |
2 |
|
On3 Industry Rankings |
5 |
16 |
3 |
1 |
|
247Sports |
4 |
54 |
9 |
2 |
|
Le3 |
5 |
25 |
3 |
2 |
|
ESPN |
5 |
11 |
1 |
1 |
|
Rivals |
5 |
8 |
1 |
1 |
Frontline defender with a huge frame, impressive linear athleticism and immense growth potential. It had solid combine testing and measured well on the offseason camp circuit in spring 2024. Periodic segmentation of movement patterns reflects growth still occurring in the frame, but brings out serious line juice right for such a large body at this point. A capable passer from the inside and the rim, thanks in part to rough hands and power at the point of attack. Often physically overwhelms outmatched opponents, but sometimes displays shades of ripping and swimming. Apparently very productive sophomore campaign with 85 tackles, 33 TFL, 20 sacks. He is still developing a pass-rush repertoire, but has shown encouraging technical awareness. Elite young defensive line prospect with exceptional physical tools and promising movement ability, who could become a serious NFL Draft candidate in the future.
With Nate Marshall and Jaylen Williams moving from Michigan to Auburn and Wisconsin, respectively, bringing the currently uncommitted Stewart into the fold would be a drastic change. Of course, the Wolverines have a lot of ground to make up in a short amount of time and there’s no indication they will. But even the fact that Michigan is making this decision right now shows you how serious it is about attracting truly elite talent to Ann Arbor — beyond even the aforementioned Underwood.
This article was originally published on Wolverines Wire: Can Michigan steal an elite 2025 recruit from LSU’s backcourt after Underwood flips?
