Four-star wide receiver Jaylen Pile, son of former Virginia Tech safety Willie Pile, is one of the prized recruits of Michigan's 2026 class. The standout from Parish Episcopal School (Texas) has been named First-Team All State and Sherrone Moore's Wolverines program made sure to congratulate their future receiver.
Pile also expressed his gratitude towards Michigan football in a post on X, tagging Moore, Michigan wide receiver coach/pass game coordinator Ron Bellamy, assistant director of recruiting Jack Dunaway, director of recruiting Sam Popper and director of player personnel Albert Karschnia.
"Appreciate the support from my 〽️ichigan Fa〽️ily! #GoBlue @Coach_SMoore @19Bellamy @Jack_Dunaway96 @SamPopper_ @AKarsch_UM."
In his junior season, Pile hauled in 63 receptions for 1,367 yards and 19 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 21.7 yards per catch. His performance also earned him Co-Offensive Player of the Year and First-Team All-District recognition.
Pile is the No. 95 wide receiver in the 2026 class, the No. 70 recruit in Texas and the No. 577 prospect in the nation, according to the On3 Industry Rankings. Though considered a composite three-star, Rivals' four-star evaluation highlights his elite potential.
What potential does Jaylen Pile bring to Michigan?
Jaylen Pile chose Michigan over Oregon, Auburn, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Penn State and Tennessee, among others. He became the first offensive commitment in Michigan’s 2026 class, initially serving as a key weapon for four-star quarterback Brady Hart, who reclassified to the 2025 class and flipped to Texas A&M last month.
However, Pile remains loyal to his commitment to the Wolverines and offers unique versatility as a receiver.
"There are few WRs that play a similar style but I like to think I bring something unique to the WR position," Pile told Michigan Wolverines On SI. "I can play in the slot as well as win outside vs. the press. Kind of like Ja’Marr Chase & Stefon Diggs with Devante Adams releases. My WR trainer, Margin Hooks, is always adding tools to my bag."
Pile also opened up about what Michigan fans can expect from him, saying:
"Fans can expect a competitor and hard worker who hates losing more than I love winning. A great teammate and dynamic playmaker with the ball in my hands and a dawg that blocks for his teammates."
Michigan's 2026 class also has four-star cornerback Brody Jennings locked in. With the 2025 recruiting cycle now complete, Michigan’s staff is shifting full attention to the 2026 class to secure more top talent alongside Pile.