Michigan coach Kyle Whittingham secured a legacy commitment from Charles Woodson Jr., a four-star defensive back from Orlando’s Lake Nona and son of 1997 Heisman winner Charles Woodson.
Kyle Whittingham is trying to reset Michigan football after a recent scandal, and recruiting has become his most immediate measuring stick.
On Friday, the Wolverines added another name to that effort: Charles Woodson Jr., who committed to the University of Michigan. ESPN’s Adam Schefter posted on X that Woodson Jr. is a four-star defensive back from Orlando (Fla.) Lake Nona and the son of former Heisman Trophy winner Charles Woodson.
For Michigan, the connection isn’t just a recruiting hook.. Charles Woodson Sr.. is one of the program’s most decorated alumni. a unanimous All-American. the Big Ten Male Athlete of the Year. and the 1997 Heisman Trophy winner.. At the time, Woodson was only the third player in school history to win the award.
Woodson Jr. comes in as a three-star safety out of Orlando, Florida. 247Sports ranks him as the No. 44 safety in the class of 2027 and the No. 49 player in the state of Florida.
On the field last season, his production included 53 tackles, an interception, two passes defended, and a fumble recovery as a sophomore.
The commitment also lands inside a family story that Woodson Sr. has already begun to share publicly. He previously served as an assistant coach at Lake Nona High School last season, and earlier this year he spoke with MaxPreps about what he wants his son to carry forward.
“It was cool man to have him on campus. to have him around Schembechler Hall. to have him put the uniform on and me and him to get pictures in the number. in the Michigan jersey and putting the helmet on — I felt like I was foreshadowing the future. hopefully. ” Woodson Sr.. said.. “For a father. when you have kids and are able to put them in certain situations that you helped forged the way for. it’s a beautiful thing.”
Michigan’s recruiting class is already under construction under Whittingham. who has also earned commitments from four-star offensive tackle Jakari Lipsey. four-star edge-rusher Recarder Kitchen. four-star defensive tackle Xavier Muhammad. and four-star wide receiver Quentin Burrell.. The Woodson legacy pledge is the latest signal that the Wolverines are betting on history. family ties. and the next generation to move forward.
Michigan Wolverines Kyle Whittingham Charles Woodson Jr. Charles Woodson recruiting Orlando Lake Nona Heisman Trophy class of 2027 ESPN Adam Schefter