Michigan’s hopes to land a blue-chip 2026 running back haven’t quite taken off—and with two of their top targets slipping away, it feels like déjà vu for Wolverines fans.
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🔥 Savion Hiter — The Big One That Got Away?
Savion Hiter arrived as the nation’s No. 1 RB in 2026 and had Michigan truly in the game. He took an official visit to Ann Arbor from June 13–15 and repeatedly praised Tony Alford’s coaching and Michigan’s consistency . But despite being ranked No. 1 and including Michigan in his final four (with Ohio State, Georgia, and Tennessee), Hiter’s recruitment remains in limbo .
While Michigan campaigned hard—Alford and Sherrone Moore fronting the charge—Hiter’s momentum appears to be shifting elsewhere. With Tennessee and Georgia still very much in the fight, the Wolverines may end up being the bridesmaid again.
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⚡ Javian Osborne — Another Missed Opportunity?
Another 2026 standout from Texas, four-star RB Javian Osborne, also signaled strong interest in Michigan last winter . Osborne canceled his Texas official visit after Michigan’s approach intensified, and even said Michigan was currently leading . But with stops at big schools like Miami, Georgia, and Alabama, the outcome is still uncertain.
Yet as of mid‑June, neither Osborne nor Hiter has made a firm commitment. And that “in limbo” status can quickly turn into “off the board.” Oklahoma, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee—they’re all still pressing, and Michigan’s lead might not last.
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Why the Repeats?
This isn’t the first time Michigan has been on the losing end of a blue‑chip RB chase. Their recent history features targets like Jae Lamar, Jae Michael Jones, and others—players who either picked other schools or chose differently .
Many factors work against Michigan:
Transfer portal impact brings in competition and guarantees playing time.
Offensive scheme—even with the return to smashmouth football, recruits question who’ll get the touches.
Perception on RB development—fans on Reddit raise doubts:
“Michigan doesn’t have a great track record of producing NFL RB