Derek Meadows Recruitment Slips From Michigan's Grasp

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Wright | Last updated Dec 1, 2024 12:17 PM ET

Michigan's hopes of flipping 2025 elite receiver Derek Meadows appear to be fading. Despite building momentum after Bryce Underwood's commitment, including crystal ball predictions from recruiting experts Steve Wiltfong, EJ Holland, and Sam Webb, the tide has turned toward Alabama in Meadows' recruitment. Webb recently lowered his confidence level after the Bishop Gorman standout missed an expected commitment timeline earlier this week. Meanwhile, 247 Sports experts Tom Loy and West Coast recruiting specialist Blair Angulo have projected the former LSU commit to Alabama.

The potential loss of Meadows, a 6-foot-5, 200-pound receiver ranked 119th overall in the 2025 class, would sting for Michigan as they continue rebuilding under first-year head coach Sherrone Moore. Michigan's passing game has been lacking all season, leaving many sports commentators blaming Michigan's one-dimensional offense for their underperformance this season. Meadows would have been a much needed addition, adding a high-velocity target who could take some of the burden off Michigan's running game.

After Jim Harbaugh's departure to the Los Angeles Chargers following last season's 15-0 national championship run, the Wolverines (7-5) find themselves in unfamiliar territory. Despite an impressive defensive performance winning them the The Game (their major rivalry game vs. Ohio State) on Saturday (13-10), Michigan still has a long rebuilding process ahead of them.

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

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