Following their impressive victory over Michigan State, the Michigan Wolverines made waves in the 2025 recruiting scene by landing Shamari Earls, a 6’2″, 180-pound cornerback from Thomas Dale High School in Chester, Virginia, who is ranked ninth nationally at his position. Earls had previously committed to the Georgia Bulldogs on July 7, 2024.
Wolverines’ Commit Shamari Earls Impresses Scouts
Andrew Ivins, Director of Scouting at 247sports.com, shares his insights on the newly acquired cornerback. On April 20, 2024, he evaluated Shamari Earls:
Shamari is an imposing perimeter corner who combines size and speed effectively. He has made his mark in all three phases of the game since his sophomore year in Virginia’s highest classification, showcasing versatility in various coverages. He excels at disrupting releases in press coverage and is adept at mirroring opponents as their routes unfold. While he shows good awareness when facing the play, he needs to enhance his overall awareness when his back is turned to the ball.
His top speed allows him to chase down plays across the field and prevent touchdowns. While his tackling style is effective, he could increase his impact in run support by shedding blocks more assertively.
Shamari is seen as a potential multi-year starter at the Power Four level with genuine NFL potential. Although his size hasn’t been third-party verified, he appears to be over 6 feet tall and has impressive times in both the 55-meter dash and long jump. He may need a year or two to adjust to college football and refine his technique, but the wait could be worthwhile.
Shamari could provide a much-needed boost to the struggling 2024 Michigan Wolverines, especially with star corner Will Johnson sidelined due to injury. The team is also facing the challenge of replacing 3-5 key defensive players.
Wolverines Make Use of Their Increased NIL Budget
Shamari Earls is set to join the Michigan Wolverines as they leapfrog Notre Dame and Penn State in the 247sports rankings. The Wolverines are building on their momentum in high-level recruiting, adding to an already impressive lineup of 2025 defensive back commitments.
They’ve secured commitments from standout safeties, including the second nationally ranked 4-star Ivan Taylor, a 6’0″, 174-pound player, and Kainoa Winston, ranked 11th at 5’10”, 185 pounds. Additionally, they’ve landed Jayden Sanders, a 4-star cornerback ranked 15th nationally, standing at 6’2″ and 172 pounds.
Michigan is not just bolstering its defense; they recently welcomed a commitment from 5-star offensive tackle Andrew Babalola, who is ranked 11th overall and stands 6’6″, 280 pounds, hailing from Blue Valley Northwest High School in Overland Park, Kansas, on October 21, 2024.
As the Wolverines and offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore continue to recruit, the anticipation builds for how many more 5 and 4-star talents they can attract. There’s even speculation about potentially swaying 5-star quarterback Bryce Underwood, who is currently committed to LSU and is ranked first overall. Rumors suggest Michigan has offered the Belleville, MI quarterback an enticing NIL deal worth $5 million.
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