"You can tell everybody wants to be there": Jayden McGregory shares his impressions to Michigan visit for BBQ at The Big House

2026 class prospect Jayden McGregory, from Valley High School in Des Moines, is one of the most highly-touted prospects in the nation. He has already received offers from Tennessee, Wisconsin, Missouri, Kansas State, Minnesota, Nebraska and Iowa State, among others.

McGregory recently received an offer from Michigan in mid-June and visited the program this week, spending two days in Ann Arbor.

His visit began on July 29, when he and his family attended the BBQ at The Big House festivities. The following day, they toured the entire campus, giving the prospect a comprehensive look at what Michigan has to offer.

In an interview with The Wolverine, McGregory expressed his enthusiasm for Coach Sherrone Moore's program.

“It was great. It was just a lot going on, coach interactions. It was just amazing. It’s really just the way the people interact with each other. You can tell everybody wants to be there. Everybody loves each other. They’re true to themselves. That just makes the campus so much better,” he said.

During his visit, McGregory received specialized instruction in a workout led by Michigan secondary coach LaMar Morgan. The session focused on techniques such as opening up in and out of breaks.

He also participated in hands-on training with strength and conditioning coach Justin Tress, which included stretching and a unique weighted foam roller exercise.

Coach Moore's presence was also a highlight for McGregory's visit.

“I like him a lot. A lot of energy high upfront. Supposed to be talking to him again. So, always checking in, stuff like that. That feels great to just know their head coach is involved. Not just the position (coach). Sometimes, a head coach can be a little bit Hollywood, kind of, but he’s not that,” he mentioned.

At 6-foot-2, 182 pounds, McGregory can excel both as a wide receiver and a defensive back.

He is listed as the No. 182 overall prospect, the No. 15 athlete in the 2026 class and the No. 2 recruit lowa, according to On3. 247 Sports lists him as the No. 116 overall prospect, the No. 10 athlete in the 2026 class and the No. 1 recruit lowa.

Nebraska is among favorites to win Jayden McGregory's commitment

According to On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine, Nebraska is leading the race to earn Jayden McGregory's commitment with a 37.3% chance.

McGregory's relationship with Nebraska began in earnest when he received an offer from the Huskers in April. His visit to Nebraska's Junior Day provided an opportunity to meet the new coaching staff, including John Butler, the secondary coach and pass game coordinator.

“I wanted to talk to all the coaches and meet the new coaching staff,” McGregory told On3. “My position coach is new at Nebraska, and I haven’t met him before."

Nebraska's coaching staff has been diligent in maintaining communication and showing consistent interest in McGregory.

“I talked to a lot of the coaches. They were constantly showing me love and making sure that we were having a good time,” he added.

The Huskers are keen to have McGregory attend several of their home games this season. He is expected to be back on the program for the high-stakes matchup against the Colorado Buffaloes. As of now, Nebraska has no players committed to their 2026 class, making his potential commitment even more significant for the program.