Michigan four-star edge target Zahir Mathis provides recruitment update

Four-star edge rusher Zahir Mathis remains one of the most highly touted uncommitted players heading into the early signing period on Wednesday. The standout from Imhotep Charter High School in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, provided an update on his recruitment in a post on X on Tuesday.

"I will not be signing the first signing period !!!!" Mathis tweeted.

Mathis initially committed to Ohio State in January but backed off his pledge in November. However, he made it clear in his decommitment post that the Buckeyes remain a strong contender.

"After much consideration I’ve decided to reopen my recruitment and decommit from Ohio State. I appreciate Coach Day, Coach Johnson and all the coaches at Ohio State. They are still a top school for me. This is a life decision. Please respect my decision!" Mathis wrote on X.

Besides Ohio State, Michigan has emerged as a serious contender in recent weeks. On3’s EJ Holland reported that the Wolverines could make a strong push for Mathis as the late signing period approaches. Michigan recruiting insider Aidan Sen also reported last month that Mathis has been in contact with the Wolverines and is giving them serious consideration.

Given Michigan's recent surge in recruitment following the flip of five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood from LSU, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Wolverines ultimately seal the deal. The school has 20 committed players in the 2025 class, ranking No. 8 in the nation.

Penn State is also a program to watch for Zahir Mathis' commitment

Another potential suitor for Zahir Mathis is Penn State. He has made multiple visits to Happy Valley this year, including an official visit in July. His relationship with the Nittany Lions’ coaching staff, especially defensive line coach Deion Barnes, could play a big role in his recruitment.

Before Mathis reopened his recruitment, Sean Fitz of BlueWhiteIllustrated noted Penn State's growing influence.

"Mathis visited Penn State twice this summer. ... The Buckeyes want to keep him, but Deion Barnes has the Nittany Lions on semi-equal footing as of now," Fitz wrote on Oct. 15.

Penn State now holds much potential to land Mathis in its 2025 class, which ranks No. 15 in the nation with 25 committed players. The cycle has four edge rushers committed: Yvan Kemajou, Dayshaun Burnett, Chaz Coleman and Cortez Harris.

Mathis is the No. 120 overall prospect in the 2025 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. He is also the nation’s No. 16 edge rusher and No. 3 recruit in Pennsylvania.