Michigan football has landed a notable addition to its 2026 class in four-star edge defender McHale Blade, who officially committed on June 9, 2025, choosing the Wolverines over elite programs like Notre Dame, USC, Wisconsin, Georgia, Tennessee, and more .
🏈 Background & Measurements
Hometown & School: Blade hails from Chicago, IL, and transferred to Simeon High School from Hillcrest in his junior year .
Size: Stands roughly 6‑4 or 6‑5 and around 245 pounds, with some reports listing him at 255 lbs .
Physical Profile: Regarded for his explosive burst, power at the point of attack, and interior versatility — projecting as either an edge rusher or interior D‑lineman with added weight .
📈 Recruitment & Rankings
Ratings: Currently a four-star recruit, ranking No. 169 nationally and No. 21 at DL in the 247Sports composite. In Illinois, he’s the No. 5 player .
Offers: Long list including Power‑5 schools: USC, Notre Dame, Georgia, Florida, Miami, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Nebraska, and more .
Ranking: Also featured among the Rivals150, recognized for his frame, first step, and elite power metrics .
🎥 Film Insights & High Ceiling
Despite injuries — including missing his junior season due to an ACL tear — Blade’s sophomore tape showcased advanced motor, hand strength, and instincts:
> “Blade immediately jumps off the screen … damn near impossible to sustain a block against because of his motor,” analysts noted .
Playstyle: Relies on power rather than length, with strong run-stopping ability and room for technique refinement .
Mentally Tough: His ability to preserve four-star status through injury speaks to his resilience and leadership — he was even named a captain at Simeon .
Comparisons: His blend of size, power, and leadership has drawn comparisons to former Michigan standout Chris Wormley .
⚔️ Fit & Future at Michigan
Class Impact: Blade becomes Michigan’s eighth commit in 2026, joining a strong group including QB Brady Smigiel and DL Titan Davis .
Positional Flexibility: His frame suggests he could play inside with added bulk or continue as a 250‑lb edge rusher — giving Michigan versatility ﹘ a key asset for coach Lou Esposito’s DL unit .
Timeline: If he returns strong from injury and delivers a standout senior year, Blade could compete for early playing time or serve as a high-upside developmental piece.
—
Bottom line: McHale Blade represents a high-upside, physical force with proven resilience and leadership. If his senior season goes well, he could elevate to a five-star rating and emerge as a cornerstone of Michigan’s defensive front.