Michigan football shows no signs of slowing down. After securing the No. 6 recruiting class for 2025, head coach Sherrone Moore and his staff are already making strides in the 2026 cycle, aiming for another key flip. Having recently flipped four-star defensive lineman Nate Marshall from Auburn, the Wolverines are now setting their sights on another major Auburn commit—four-star linebacker Shadarius Toodle.
Toodle, a standout at Cottage Hill Christian Academy in Mobile, Alabama, has been committed to Auburn since July 2023. However, that hasn’t deterred Michigan from making a strong push. He recently announced his official visit schedule, which includes a trip to Ann Arbor on May 30, along with visits to Georgia (May 16), Florida (June 6), Auburn (June 13), and Baylor (June 20). With linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary leading Michigan’s recruitment efforts, the Wolverines face stiff competition. Auburn’s home-state advantage and the presence of SEC powerhouses make this a challenging pursuit, but Michigan has a track record of pulling off major recruiting wins.
Ranked No. 92 overall, the No. 6 linebacker, and the No. 7 prospect in Alabama per On3’s Industry Ranking, Toodle is a dynamic defender with a rare blend of size, speed, and physicality. At 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, he has the athleticism to cover the field sideline to sideline and the instincts to make an impact at the highest level. His talent has earned him offers from over 30 FBS programs, including Alabama, LSU, and Texas, solidifying his status as one of the most sought-after defensive prospects in the 2026 class.
Michigan’s recruiting pitch will emphasize its strong defensive tradition and success in developing linebackers for the NFL. With recent examples like Junior Colson and Nikhai Hill-Green, the Wolverines have proven their ability to mold top talent into pro-ready players. Jean-Mary has already made waves in the 2025 class, securing commitments from four-star linebacker Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng (IMG Academy) and three-star Chase Taylor (Stockbridge, Georgia). Landing Toodle would further solidify Michigan’s linebacker corps and reinforce its ability to recruit on a national scale.
Currently, Michigan’s 2026 recruiting class ranks No. 44 nationally and 13th in the Big Ten, with two commitments—four-star defensive back Brody Jennings and three-star wide receiver Jaylen Pile. That ranking is expected to climb as the Wolverines ramp up their recruiting efforts. Toodle remains a top priority, and his visit to Ann Arbor on May 30 could be a crucial moment in the battle for his commitment.
With Auburn determined to retain its prized recruit and other SEC programs in the mix, Michigan faces a tough challenge. However, history has shown that the Wolverines’ staff isn’t afraid to go head-to-head with the nation’s top programs in recruiting battles—and win. If Michigan can make a strong impression during Toodle’s visit, another major flip could be in the making.
