The Michigan football program is making a concerted push to bolster its 2025 recruiting class, with the Wolverines landing a significant commitment from a highly-touted defensive lineman. As the early signing day approaches, this latest addition could prove pivotal in shoring up a position group facing significant departures.

Wolverines Solidify Defensive Line with Prized Recruit

Benny Patterson Decommits from Cincinnati, Joins Michigan's 2025 Class

Benny Patterson, a three-star defensive lineman from Newburgh, Indiana, has decided to decommit from the University of Cincinnati and instead join the Michigan Wolverines' 2025 recruiting class. The 6-foot-3, 245-pound lineman had been committed to the Bearcats since April, but now becomes the fourth addition to defensive line coach Lou Esposito's unit in the class. This move comes as a significant boost for the Wolverines, who are expected to lose as many as six key players from their defensive line rotation, including Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant, Josaiah Stewart, Derrick Moore, TJ Guy, and Rayshaun Benny.Patterson, who is rated as the No. 10 player in Indiana, the No. 75 defensive lineman in the country, and the No. 659 overall prospect, held over a dozen Power 5 offers, including from schools like Florida State, Indiana, Penn State, and USC. As a senior, he has already amassed 57 tackles, including a team-high 13 for loss and seven sacks in just nine games. This impressive production has made Patterson a highly sought-after recruit, and his decision to join the Wolverines' 2025 class is a significant coup for the program.

Michigan Continues to Bolster Defensive Line with Talented Additions

Patterson's commitment joins a growing list of talented defensive line recruits in Michigan's 2025 class. The Wolverines have already secured commitments from four-star prospects Jaylen Williams (Palatine, Ill.), Bobby Kanka (Howell), and Julius Holly (Alpharetta, Ga.), further solidifying their defensive front for the future. This influx of high-caliber talent is crucial as the Wolverines look to replace the significant departures they are expected to face in the coming years.The addition of Patterson is the latest in a series of recruiting victories for the Michigan football program, which has been actively pursuing top talent across the country. While the Wolverines did suffer a recent decommitment from four-star quarterback Carter Smith, they have gained momentum in their pursuit of the nation's top quarterback prospect, Belleville five-star Bryce Underwood.

Michigan's 2025 Recruiting Class Continues to Take Shape

With Patterson's commitment, Michigan's 2025 recruiting class now stands at 17 total commits, placing the Wolverines at No. 14 in the 247Sports composite rankings. This class, the first under the leadership of head coach Sherrone Moore, is shaping up to be a strong one, with the program addressing key needs across the roster.The defensive line, in particular, has been a focus for the Wolverines, as they look to replenish a unit that is set to lose several key contributors. The addition of Patterson, along with the previously mentioned four-star prospects, provides a solid foundation for the future of the defensive front. As the early signing day approaches, Michigan will undoubtedly continue to work tirelessly to secure additional top-tier talent to bolster its 2025 class.