Michigan struck gold on the recruiting trail Monday afternoon, landing a major commitment from four‑star defensive back Andre Clarke out of Richmond (Va.) Hermitage High. Clarke, ranked among the nation’s top 200 recruits and No. 16 at safety by On3, announced his decision to join the Wolverines over finalists Kentucky, SMU, Syracuse and Virginia Tech .
At 6‑foot‑1 and 165 pounds, Clarke brings exciting versatility. He has played both safety and cornerback, and even lined up at wide receiver and punter during his prep career . Michigan recruiting staffers, including secondary coach LaMar Morgan and head coach Sherrone Moore, emphasized that adaptability during his recruitment. Clarke noted the appeal of Michigan’s defensive back system, where players seamlessly shift between corner and safety roles — but stressed that corner is his primary preference .
Clarke explained, “I like how the DBs do both corner and safety. You aren’t just playing one position out there. I see myself playing anywhere in that scheme. But corner is where it’s at for me.” . He also praised Coach Morgan’s leadership and Coach Moore’s journey: “There is something about Ann Arbor … it feels like home.” .
His recruitment accelerated after an official visit over Father’s Day, putting Michigan “definitely … probably No. 1” in his mind . On3 ranks him the No. 6 recruit in Virginia and No. 185 nationally, while 247Sports places him at No. 177 overall . Major conference programs like Kentucky, Miami, FSU, and South Carolina were also in pursuit , making his decision a significant recruiting victory.
Clarke becomes Michigan’s 19th commitment in the 2026 class, joining high-profile pledges such as five‑star EDGE Carter Meadows and fellow DB Brody Jennings . His addition strengthens an already top‑10 national class (No. 10) and No. 3 in the Big Ten .
Scouts view Clarke as a “premier‑level playmaker” and “dynamic cover man,” able to balance coverage instincts with aggressive tackling—traits that suggest NFL potential . Analysts also point to his “thin frame” and need to add strength, but praise his length, speed, and high ceiling .
With Clarke officially on board, Michigan continues to build one of its most versatile and dangerous secondaries