It’s time to stop worrying about Michigan football recruiting

The recruiting trail has not been treating Michigan football very well as of late. The Wolverines recently missed out on two massive prospects and didn’t seem to be gaining any steam with some of the nation’s best players. Still, there is no reason to worry about Michigan’s recruiting efforts.

Is Michigan football Development U?

On Wednesday, Michigan football again received high praise from 247 Sports director of recruiting Steve Wiltfong. Wiltfog went on the 247 Sports podcast to talk recruiting and went in-depth on some of the happenings around Ann Arbor. While on the podcast, Wiltfong claimed that Michigan football is “Development U.”

Over the years, Jim Harbaugh has proven himself to be one of the best developmental coaches in the sport. Harbaugh has taken three-star talent that most overlooked — including players like Ronnie Bell and Hassan Haskins — and turned them into stars in the Maize and Blue.

Michigan signs worst class since 2018

In 2023 — coming off the heels of back-to-back Big Ten titles and more — Harbaugh currently has his worst class since his 22nd-ranked class in 2018 off the heels of an 8-5 season. Michigan’s class now ranks 19th overall, 14th in the transfer rankings, and 18th in the composite ranks.

The 2023 class is Harbaugh’s second class outside the top 15 and his third outside the top 10 as Michigan’s head football coach. Still, Michigan football has 16 four-star recruits and 15 three-star recruits and could land more via the portal and late signings.

Wolverines are in fine shape elsewhere

Currently, Michigan football boasts one of the best transfer classes in the nation, with seven commits thus far. The Wolverines have six four-stars and one three-star — its only three-star is Jack Tuttle, a QB depth piece that Michigan picked up from Indiana.

Additionally, Michigan is in the lead for numerous 2024 prospects, including five-star quarterback Jadyn Davis, who is expected to commit to Michigan football when the time comes to make a call.

So yes, the Wolverines have had a rough week on the recruiting trail, and I do not deny that Michigan’s most recent class has been underwhelming on paper. That being said, the Wolverines are still bringing in plenty of talent in the 2023 freshman and transfer classes and have a great shot at some major players in the following class.

For opposing fans, I am sure it appears as if Michigan is running low on talent; however, those who have watched Jim Harbaugh and his staff develop talent know that the Wolverines will be just fine. After all, it was three-star running back Hassan Haskins that scored five touchdowns in Michigan’s 42-27 victory over Ohio State just two seasons ago.

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