Michigan Predicted to Lose Recruiting Battle to Ohio State

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 1:50 PM ET

Following a disappointing 8-5 record in the 2024 season, the Michigan Wolverines have been busy recruiting high school players in the offseason.

Led by coach Sherrone Moore, the program already has 15 commitments and is now pursuing defensive lineman Damari Simeon out of Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey.

Simeon will choose among Michigan, the Penn State Nittany Lions, the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes, and will announce his decision on Friday. He's had official visits with the teams mentioned above.

However, on Thursday, On3's Steve Wiltfong predicted that Simeon will join the Buckeyes instead in the Big Ten.

This outcome would certainly sting for Michigan, as On3 places Simeon as a four-star recruit, the No. 7 defensive lineman, the No. 2 player in New Jersey and the No. 65 player in the nation.

His talents were on full display for St. Augustine Prep. Last season, he had 28 tackles, six tackles for loss, 205 sacks, one interception and one forced fumble in nine games.

However, it's not as though the Wolverines would be left out to dry when it comes to defensive linemen, as they've already landed multiple, including four stars Titan Davis and Alister Vallejo.

In Ohio State's case, Simeon would be a huge addition to its recruiting class, which ranks No. 2 in the Big Ten and No. 5 in the nation with 17 total commitments.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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