The biggest weakness for Michigan football in recruiting has been the linebacker position in recent years. Though there have been some high-level players who have chosen the the Wolverines — like former four-star Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng — and other diamonds in the rough, like his classmate Chase Taylor, the maize and blue have struggled to get top linebackers to commit. Additionally, Michigan has struggled to recruit the state of Mississippi.
And in one fell swoop, the Wolverines managed to secure a four-star linebacker from the Magnolia State.
Despite having offered 2027 Greenwood (Miss.) four-star linebacker Frederrick Ford on June 4, the maize and blue vaulted to near the top of his list. Tennessee, LSU, Ole Miss, and Mississippi State loomed large for the multi-sport athlete, but after both an unofficial and official visit to campus last week, he pulled the trigger for Michigan on Thursday.
He made his commitment on CBS Sports’ college football YouTube channel.
Here is the scouting report from 247Sports’ Andrew Ivins:
-Dangly hit-and-run linebacker that can collect stops around the field.-Pairs a projectable 6-foot-3 frame with exceptional athletic markers: 91 explosion score, 4.7 seconds in the 40-yard dash.-Charges forward and will beat ball carriers and block to the perimeter.-Runs feet through contact, frequently firing through the hips.-Fluid in zone coverage while reach tends to give him an advantage in man-to-man looks.-Got looks in the box, in the slot and up top as a junior while also hunting heads on special teams units.-Will need to improve the sonar in the coming years while also adding some much-needed weight, but has no shortage of developmental upside with his range and physicality.-Projects as a potential impact defender at the Power Four level in an era where everyone wants to get longer and faster.
Here is the full list of commits according to the Rivals Industry Ranking:
Ford is rated highest by ESPN, as the No. 140 player in the country, regardless of position.
This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Michigan football lands elite linebacker Frederrick Ford
Reporting by Isaiah Hole, Wolverines Wire / Wolverines Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Isaiah Hole, Wolverines Wire | USA TODAY Network
