Michigan Keeps Rolling: Massive 6-8, 300-Pound Five-Star OT Jackson Cantwell Chooses Wolverines Over Florida, LSU, and Alabama After Eye-Opening Weekend Visit
Michigan football is on an absolute tear on the recruiting trail, and the Wolverines just added another massive piece to their future.
Five-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell, a towering 6-foot-8, 300-pound force from Missouri, has committed to Michigan, choosing the Wolverines over powerhouse programs like Florida, LSU, and Alabama. His decision comes fresh off a highly productive weekend visit to Ann Arbor, solidifying Michigan’s dominance in the 2026 recruiting cycle.
Cantwell is widely regarded as one of the best offensive line prospects in the country, bringing an elite combination of size, strength, and athleticism. His versatility and physicality make him an instant-impact player at the next level, and his decision gives Michigan back-to-back elite offensive talents after landing 2025’s No. 1 overall recruit, quarterback Bryce Underwood. Head coach Sherrone Moore and his staff are making a statement: Michigan is going nowhere but up.
Why Michigan?
The Wolverines have built a reputation for developing elite offensive linemen, and that played a significant role in Cantwell’s choice. Under Moore, a former offensive line coach himself, Michigan has produced some of the best linemen in college football. Their physical, run-heavy style is a perfect fit for Cantwell’s game, and his visit to Ann Arbor gave him a firsthand look at what the program has to offer.
“The energy, the coaching staff, and the way they develop guys—it all just felt right,” Cantwell said following his commitment. “Michigan is a place where I know I can reach my full potential, both as a player and as a person.”
Cantwell’s relationship with offensive line coach Grant Newsome was also a key factor. Newsome has quickly built a reputation as one of the best young coaches in the country, and his ability to develop linemen played a major role in securing this commitment.
Beating Out the SEC’s Best
Cantwell’s recruitment was a battle from the start. Programs like Alabama, LSU, and Florida all made a strong push for the five-star tackle, and for good reason. He’s the type of player who can anchor an offensive line for years, and his elite athleticism makes him a rare prospect at his position.
Despite the SEC’s best efforts, Michigan won out, continuing a trend of the Wolverines competing toe-to-toe with the biggest programs in the country for top talent. This commitment signals that Michigan isn’t just an elite program on the field—it’s a dominant force on the recruiting trail as well.
What’s Next for Michigan?
Landing Cantwell gives Michigan a game-changing piece for the 2026 class, and they aren’t done yet. The Wolverines continue to pursue elite talent on both sides of the ball, building a foundation that could keep them at the top of college football for years to come.
With Bryce Underwood already locked in for 2025 and now Cantwell leading the way in 2026, Michigan’s future is as bright as ever.
