Recruiting analyst shares major update on Michigan's pursuit of four-star EDGE Zahir Mathis

While the 2025 class prospects are heading to their respective programs after completing signings, four-star edge rusher Zahir Mathis is still taking time to commit for the second time after backing off his pledge from Ohio State on Nov. 18.

As he nears his decision for next month's signing period, Sherrone Moore's Michigan is emerging as a top contender in his recruitment, as per On3's EJ Holland.

"I think Zahir Mathis would fit in really well at Michigan in terms of where the Wolverines stand in his recruitment," Holland said. "Right now he has three official visits at Florida State, UCLA and Michigan. Michigan gets the last visit. I think that's huge for the Wolverines. I think they can win over the ex-Ohio State commit."

Offensive line coach Grant Newsome is recruiting Mathis at Michigan. His relationship with Moore and defensive line coach Lou Esposito gives Michigan an edge in his recruitment, but he isn’t ready to lean toward any program.

"All I can say is I keep my options open to everything that I got going on so far," Mathis said on Jan. 2 (via SB Nation).

Michigan has 23 committed players in the 2025 class, ranking No. 9 in the nation. The cycle holds two edge rusher commits in Julius Holly and Travis Moten.

Zahir Mathis can be a big addition to Michigan's 2025 class

Michigan's 2025 class got a big boost with the addition of the nation's No. 1 quarterback, Bryce Underwood, alongside offensive phenoms like five-star offensive tackle Andrew Babalola. If Zahir Mathis commits to Michigan, he will provide a big boost to the Wolverines' pass rush.

EJ Holland praised Mathis after seeing him live on multiple occasions and comparing him to Michigan’s current defensive line signees, saying:

"I think there's a lot to like about Mathis and when you look at Michigan's edge class you see Julius Holly who's not really that tall long edge guy. You see Nate Marshall who I think probably spins down and plays with his hand in the dirt as more of a four-eye or three-text."

Zahir Mathis’ ability to dominate in one-on-one drills has impressed scouts. He is the No. 16 edge rusher in the 2026 class, according to the On3 Industry Rankings.