Recruiting insider provides update on Michigan's top 3 quarterback priorities for 2026

Michigan's 2025 class is one of the best in the nation, and five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood is the crown jewel of the cycle. Despite locking Underwood with his official signing on the Early Signing Period on Dec. 4, Sherrone Moore and his Wolverines coaching staff are looking for multiple blue-chip quarterbacks in the 2026 class.

New offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey has been actively scouting elite talent, including five-star Ryder Lyons, visiting the prospect on Thursday. Lyons is ranked as the No. 3 quarterback in the 2026 class and the No. 3 prospect in California, according to the On3 Industry Rankings.

Michigan recruiting insider Aidan Sen reported Lindsey's efforts to build relationships with Lyons and other standout quarterbacks, such as Oscar Rios and Brady Smigiel.

"I think Chip is doing a great job re-establishing relationships with both Ryder Lyons and Oscar Rios," Sen wrote. "I know he had a chance to see Ryder today and will see Oscar and Brady Smigiel tomorrow."

Rios is the No. 15 quarterback in the 2026 cycle and the No. 28 prospect in California, while Smigiel is the No. 5 quarterback in the class and the No. 7 recruit in the state.

Michigan lacks a quarterback commit in the 2026 class, which holds pledges of cornerback Brody Jennings and wide receiver Jaylen Pile.

What potential does Michigan have to secure these targeted quarterbacks?

According to Aidan Sen, Ryder Lyons and Oscar Rios are both still undecided in their recruitments, with Lyons holding a 97.8% chance of committing to USC, according to On3, and Purdue in a strong position with a 62.4% chance to land Rios. However, both players are still open to other options, and Michigan is hoping to make an impression when they visit in the spring.

Meanwhile, Brady Smigiel has been committed to Florida State since June, but the pledge might not stay strong. The Seminoles ended the 2024 season with a 2-10 record, and to make matters even worse, the school fired several coaches amid this lackluster season, which prompted multiple committed prospects to back off their pledges.

With the changes at Florida State, there have been several schools shooting their shot at Smigiel. Washington is a major player in the race and even received a visit from him. South Carolina also offered him earlier this week, and the Wolverines can also increase their effort if they strongly view Smigiel as Bryce Underwood's competitor.

However, Florida State is also leaving no stone unturned to retain Smigiel's commitment after losing three committed players in the 2026 class. The Seminoles coaching staff, including coach Mike Norvell and new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, visited him on Monday.