**2026 5-Star Offensive Tackle Jackson Cantwell Flips Commitment to Michigan Wolverines Over Alabama Football**
In a major recruiting shake-up, Jackson Cantwell, the highly sought-after 2026 5-star offensive tackle, has flipped his commitment from Alabama to Michigan. The move has sent ripples through college football recruiting circles, as Cantwell’s decision marks a significant victory for Michigan and a big loss for Alabama. Known for his immense talent and potential, the 6’6”, 310-pound lineman from Illinois had been a top target for several elite programs, making his eventual commitment a highly anticipated event.
Cantwell, who has garnered national attention as one of the top prospects in the 2026 class, originally pledged to Alabama, a program synonymous with producing elite offensive linemen under head coach Nick Saban. His early commitment to Alabama seemed like a foregone conclusion, considering the Crimson Tide’s dominant track record in both recruiting and player development, particularly along the offensive line. However, Michigan’s coaching staff never stopped pursuing Cantwell, making him a top priority and providing an environment where he could thrive.
This shift in Cantwell’s commitment is a result of several factors, including his growing trust in Michigan’s coaching staff, the Wolverines’ strong emphasis on developing offensive linemen, and the program’s ability to compete at the highest level. Michigan’s offensive line coach, Sherrone Moore, has been a significant factor in the recruitment of Cantwell. Moore has built a reputation for developing top-tier talent, and his ability to get the most out of his linemen played a crucial role in Cantwell’s ultimate decision.
Michigan has also been on an upward trajectory under head coach Jim Harbaugh. The Wolverines have become a regular contender in the Big Ten, regularly competing for championships and attracting top recruits. This winning culture, combined with the opportunity to play in a system that prioritizes the offensive line, was extremely appealing to Cantwell. Additionally, the atmosphere in Ann Arbor, along with the support from the fanbase and the school’s overall commitment to success, made Michigan an ideal destination.
On the flip side, Alabama has long been a powerhouse in the world of college football, and Cantwell’s decision to flip came as a surprise to many. Despite Alabama’s tradition of success and the allure of playing for a program with a pedigree of developing first-round NFL draft picks, Cantwell ultimately felt that Michigan presented the best fit for him. The decision to go with Michigan also reflects a changing landscape in college football, where new recruits are increasingly drawn to programs that offer not just success but also a clear path to development, relationships with coaches, and a sense of belonging within a team culture.
Cantwell’s flip to Michigan is also a sign of the Wolverines’ growing national influence on the recruiting trail. Michigan’s ability to secure a commitment from a top-tier, in-demand player like Cantwell reinforces the notion that the Wolverines are building something special in both their recruiting and team-building strategies.
As Michigan continues to build momentum, Cantwell’s commitment is a significant victory that could have a lasting impact on their recruiting efforts in the years to come. For Cantwell, his decision is a bold step toward achieving his goals and fulfilling his potential in a program that is positioned to be a national contender for years to come.