​Welcome to the Recruiting Roundup, our tri-weekly series that breaks down the latest movements on the Michigan Wolverines’ recruiting trail. We’ll keep you posted on the top targets, the visits they take, the predictions analysts are making, and every development in between. Here’s what you need to know today.
Michigan is continuing to leave a strong impression on one of the Midwest’s premier playmakers. 2028 four-star athlete Cartae Ligon, ranked No. 141 nationally, recently returned to Ann Arbor for a camp and left feeling even more confident about the Wolverines. Running backs coach Tony Alford has made Ligon a top priority in the class, and the relationship between the two programs is steadily growing. “I just feel like, out of all the schools, they just show that they want me the most, and it just feels like home every time I go up there,” Ligon told The Wolverine. “They definitely treat me as a priority.” Even though Michigan is already high on his list, Ligon wanted to compete in front of the coaching staff, proving himself on the field. “Even though I’m No. 1 on his board doesn’t mean I can’t go up there and just work out and show them why they should want me even more.” After rushing for more than 2,200 yards last season, Ligon plans to return for a game this fall, a further encouraging sign for the Wolverines.
Another Ohio prospect to watch is offensive lineman Jace Montgomery, the No. 277 overall player in the 2028 class, who recently visited Ann Arbor after receiving an offer this spring. Montgomery attends Archbishop Moeller, the same school that produced running back Jordan Marshall. The Cincinnati native, whose father Jerry previously coached at Michigan, told On3 that the visit reaffirmed why the Wolverines stand out. “It was really good. We were there for like a whole day, so it was good to meet all the coaches and see Ann Arbor again.” Montgomery also praised offensive line coach Jim Harding, saying, “He has a big past of developing guys at Utah. A great guy, and I really like his coaching philosophy and what they do in the run game with all the zone and the variety of what they run. I think it’d be a really nice spot.” Michigan emphasized Montgomery’s leadership at center, and he indicated he would definitely return for a game this fall.
Michigan isn’t done hosting legacy edge rusher Asa Burch. The 2028 four-star standout has already scheduled a return trip to Ann Arbor for the Wolverines’ Week 2 showdown against Oklahoma, giving the staff another opportunity to build on what’s rapidly becoming one of its strongest relationships in the 2028 class. Burch has already spent two days on campus, immersing himself in Michigan’s program and culture. His father, Alfie Burch, a former Wolverine, was on hand and left impressed with what he observed during the visit. Currently ranked No. 125 nationally and No. 12 among edge rushers in the Rivals Industry Rankings, Burch continues to be a significant piece of Michigan’s recruiting momentum.
As the Wolverines press forward, the focus remains on connecting with top targets, maximizing official and unofficial visit opportunities, and showcasing Michigan’s programs’ strengths—both on the field and in terms of development and culture. The ongoing conversations with Ligon, Montgomery, and Burch, along with additional targets who may emerge, will shape Michigan’s trajectory for the 2028 class and beyond. Stay tuned for further updates as these recruiting narratives continue to unfold and as Michigan aims to convert promising visits into firm commitments.