"Michigan is still one of my favorites": Four-star 2026 class OT target Zaden Krempin weighs in on Wolverines

Four-star interior offensive lineman Zaden Krempin remains one of the most highly touted prospects in the 2026 class. The Prosper High School (Texas) standout's recruitment is far from over, with a handful of offers from big programs, including Michigan.

Michigan offensive line coach Grant Newsome has taken the lead in recruiting Krempin for the Wolverines. Speaking with Michigan recruiting insider Aidan Sen on Friday, Krempin confirmed that Michigan remains a strong contender in his recruitment.

"Michigan is still one of my favorites," he said. "I speak to Coach Newsome all the time and I’ll be visiting Ann Arbor this spring."

The 6-foot-5, 255-pound Krempin has set a timeline for his recruitment, saying he plans to make his commitment this summer.

"I’m not sure how many junior days I’ll make this spring," Krempin said. "I want to make actual practices and see the coaches coach.

Earlier this month, Zaden Krempin was named the 2024 District 6-6A Offensive Line MVP. He is the No. 14 interior offensive lineman in the 2026 class, the No. 33 recruit in Texas and the No. 225 prospect in the nation.

Besides Sherrone Moore's program, Texas, LSU, Tennessee and Texas A&M are still high on Krempin's list as well. He also plans on visiting SMU, Clemson and Georgia.

Zaden Krempin raves about Michigan's game-day experience

Zaden Krempin and his family were in attendance during Michigan's 27-24 win over USC on Sept. 21. The visit gave the Wolverines an edge in his recruitment.

"That was one of the most fun games I have ever been to," Krempin told On3. "The crowd was insane and the best part was how much Michigan ran the ball."

Even Krempin's father praised the game-day excitement, saying:

"Everything about it was incredible. It left an impression for sure."

Being a Texas native, SMU is the leader in Zaden Krempin's recruitment with a 49.3% chance of securing his commitment, according to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine. Despite having a 7.1% chance in this regard, Michigan is also making its case as a legitimate contender.

"I'm very interested in possibly playing ball for Michigan," Krempin told 247Sports in May. "What's not to like? They produce a ton of NFL players and just won the national championship."

The Wolverines’ 2026 recruiting class already boasts commitments from cornerback Brody Jennings and wide receiver Jaylen Pile, and Krempin could become a valuable addition to this cycle.