“If you can’t win on the field, just win the wallet war.” It’s a cynical take, but in the era of NIL deals, it’s a sentiment that rings true for many college football programs. Under Sherrone Moore, Michigan is playing the NIL game like seasoned pros, and their recruiting efforts are proof. Last season’s five-loss record left fans disappointed, but the Wolverines are making it crystal clear: they’re not rebuilding, they’re reloading. And they’re doing it with a checkbook as open as the Big House on game day. The poster child for this aggressive approach? Five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood. His near-$10 million NIL deal isn’t just eye-catching; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that Michigan is willing to invest heavily in its future. But as any savvy investor knows, a prized asset needs protection. A star quarterback needs a rock-solid offensive line. You can’t drive a Ferrari with flat tires.

So, Moore and his staff have been on a mission to fortify their offensive trenches. And now they’re on the verge of a potentially game-changing acquisition: five-star offensive tackle, Ty Haywood. This 6-foot-5, 285-pound behemoth is the kind of player who can pave the way for Underwood and turn good plays into touchdowns.

The Wolverines are heading into signing day week with a recruiting class ranked No. 7 nationally by 247Sports and No. 9 by On3. Impressive, no doubt. But they’re not satisfied. They’re aiming for a grand finale, a cherry on top of an already delicious sundae. And that cherry is Ty Haywood. He holds the final piece of the puzzle, the key to unlocking the full potential of Michigan’s 2025 class.

The anticipation is palpable. Haywood is set to announce his commitment on Wednesday at 8 AM at the Denton Ryan Fine Arts Center. His Instagram story, simply stating, “All are welcome,” has only fueled the speculation. Michigan has been relentless in their pursuit, and the buzz suggests they’re in the driver’s seat. Landing Haywood would be a massive coup, especially since they’ve taken some hits on the O-line lately. Losing those transfer portal targets, Pat Coogan (who went to Indiana) and Rocco Spindler (who’s now at Nebraska), has left a gap they need to plug.

But even without Haywood, Michigan’s 2025 class is stacked. Twenty-three commits, including five-stars Bryce Underwood and Andrew Babalola, already form a formidable foundation. Adding Haywood would simply elevate this class to another stratosphere. This guy isn’t just a football player; he’s a physical marvel. His track and field exploits are mind-boggling. A 58-foot-6-inch shot put throw? Multiple 50-plus-foot throws as a sophomore? A 54-foot-6.75-inch regional qualifier? And let’s not forget his 119-foot-3-inch discus launch. These aren’t just good numbers; they’re elite. They speak to Haywood’s raw power and athleticism, traits that translate beautifully to the football field.

Well, Haywood’s recruitment has been an intriguing journey. He initially committed to Alabama in July 2024, but things took a turn in December when he didn’t sign. He officially decommitted on January 13th. Michigan quickly emerged as a top contender, hosting Haywood on a visit shortly after his decommitment. While Florida State and Texas Tech are still in the mix, the momentum seems to be with the Wolverines.

So, will Michigan emerge as winners?

What Ty Haywood’s commitment means to Sherrone Moore’s Michigan

Sherrone Moore’s impact on Michigan’s recruiting scene has been undeniable, especially since securing the commitment of five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood. He’s been making moves, no doubt, but his offensive playmakers seem to be slipping through his fingers like a greased pigskin. It’s like he’s got the quarterback, but the rest of the offensive pieces keep fumbling the pigskin.

Think about it. Since landing wide receiver Donaven McCulley through the transfer portal, the Wolverines haven’t been able to replicate that success in bringing in more game-changing offensive talent. They’ve flirted with some intriguing prospects, like wide receivers Skyler Bell, David Pantelis, and Troy Stellato, but haven’t been able to close the deal. It’s like they’re always the bridesmaid, never the bride. And the frustration doesn’t stop there. Losing offensive linemen Rocco Spindler to Matt Rhule and Nebraska, and Pat Coogan to Indiana, was a gut punch. So landing a five-star offensive lineman would be a huge boost, a much-needed win in the trenches. But not without a little competition.

But here’s where it gets spicy—Michigan is in the lead. As top recruiting insiders, Steve Wiltfong and Chad Simmons both predict Haywood will go to the University of Michigan. “Talking to sources around Ty Haywood and talking to sources around Michigan, Texas Tech, Florida State… the three programs that he’s had communication with down the stretch of this process. I still love where the maize and blue… Michigan stands in the recruitment of Ty Haywood.” If Moore and crew close this deal, that’s a massive win.

Moreover, Ty Haywood is not just any blue-chip prospect; he’s a force to be reckoned with in the trenches. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 295 pounds, he possesses the agility of a tight end and hits like a freight train. With his size, skill, and aggressive playing style, he would undoubtedly pose a problem for defenses from day one.

Imagine him teaming up with Bryce Underwood, the top overall prospect and Michigan’s future QB1. This dynamic duo wouldn’t just be good; they would be a certified blockbuster.