Michigan’s 2026 recruiting efforts have taken an intriguing turn as the Wolverines look to flip SMU linebacker commit Markel “Kel” Dabney following a surprise visit to Ann Arbor. The three-star prospect from Richmond, Virginia, originally pledged to SMU just last month but has recently emerged as a top Michigan target after his unofficial visit this past weekend .
On3 analyst EJ Holland and two additional recruiting insiders have shifted their predictions in Michigan’s favor after Dabney’s campus trip, now leaning toward the Wolverines to secure his commitment . Dabney himself hinted at a looming decision, posting, “Announcement coming 6/21! #AGTG” on June 18, signaling that a commitment could come this Saturday .
Standing at 6‑foot‑1 and weighing 205 pounds, Dabney is ranked No. 785 nationally in the 2026 class—a modest rating, but one Michigan feels strongly about cultivating . The Wolverines already see linebacker strength as a priority for the coming cycle, with Dabney joining other targets like Brayden Rouse, Shadarius Toodle, Nick Abrams, Kenneth Goodwin, and Calvin Thomas .
Michigan’s efforts have been led by linebackers coach Brian Jean‑Mary, who has reportedly engaged Dabney directly and impressively throughout the recruitment . Dabney praised his weekend visit, saying coach Sherrone Moore “is a great head coach and outstanding human-being in general. It would be an honor to play under him and for the Michigan Wolverines” .
Despite Dabney’s SMU commitment, he holds offers from several Power Five programs, including Florida State, Kentucky, Miami, Notre Dame, Ole Miss, Penn State, and Tennessee . Yet the momentum appears to have shifted Michigan’s way, as multiple insiders now project a flip in favor of the Wolverines by this weekend.
If Dabney does flip, it would continue a growing trend under coach Moore’s staff: turning official visits into recruitment triumphs. Michigan’s linebacker corps would welcome added depth, and landing a prospect like Dabney would mark yet another recruiting victory.
With the commitment