BREAKING: Top 2 Most Wanted SEC TE Flips Commitment to Michigan Wolverine over Alabama, Texas Longhorns, and Others…
BREAKING: Top 2 Most Wanted SEC TE Flips Commitment to Michigan Wolverines Over Alabama, Texas Longhorns, and Others
It was a quiet Wednesday afternoon in Ann Arbor until news broke that turned the college football world on its head. Five-star tight end Carter “The Beast” Taylor, the No. 2-ranked SEC recruit and the most coveted tight end in the 2025 class, announced his shocking commitment to the Michigan Wolverines, bypassing powerhouse programs like Alabama and Texas.
Taylor’s decision sent shockwaves through the recruiting landscape. A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Taylor was long presumed to be a lock for the Crimson Tide. For months, analysts predicted he’d either stay home or choose Texas, a program that had aggressively pursued him with promises of an offense tailored to his skills. Instead, the towering 6’6″, 250-pound athlete turned down the SEC giants for the colder climate of the Big Ten.
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The Announcement
The reveal came in dramatic fashion. Taylor hosted a commitment ceremony at his high school gymnasium, packed with family, friends, and reporters. Decked out in neutral black, he stood at a table adorned with hats from Alabama, Texas, Georgia, and Michigan. The tension in the room was palpable as Taylor reached for the crimson Alabama cap—only to pull his hand back at the last second. With a sly grin, he reached under the table and pulled out a Michigan Wolverines hat, placing it on his head to the roaring cheers of his family.
“Go Blue!” Taylor exclaimed as cameras flashed. “I’ve always been about family, tradition, and finding the right fit for me. Michigan showed me that they can develop me not only as a player but as a man. Coach Harbaugh and the staff have a vision for me in their offense, and I’m ready to be a part of it.”
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Behind the Decision
Taylor’s choice reportedly boiled down to two factors: Michigan’s recent success with tight ends and the Wolverines’ family-oriented culture. Over the past three seasons, Michigan had produced two All-American tight ends and sent both to the NFL as first-round draft picks. The Wolverines’ offensive coordinator personally recruited Taylor, showing him film of how he’d be used in their system.
Moreover, Taylor’s relationship with his mother played a key role. A single parent who had always prioritized education, she was impressed by Michigan’s academic reputation. “Carter’s always dreamed of playing in the NFL, but I want him to be prepared for life beyond football,” she said. “Michigan feels like the total package.”
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Reaction Across the Country
The fallout was immediate. Alabama fans flooded social media with disbelief, accusing Taylor of betraying his hometown roots. Texas fans expressed frustration, calling it another missed opportunity for the Longhorns to land a marquee recruit. Meanwhile, Michigan fans celebrated wildly, hailing Taylor’s decision as a game-changer for their program.
Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh issued a statement shortly after the announcement. “We’re thrilled to welcome Carter to the Michigan family. He’s a phenomenal athlete with an even better character. He’s going to thrive here, both on and off the field.”
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What’s Next for Taylor
Taylor is expected to enroll early at Michigan, joining the Wolverines in January to begin preparations for his freshman season. Many believe he has the potential to start as a true freshman, given Michigan’s penchant for utilizing tight ends as key offensive weapons.
As for Taylor, he’s ready to silence any critics. “I know people will say I should’ve stayed in the South, but I made this decision for me and my future. Michigan is where I belong.”
With this monumental commitment, the Wolverines have not only secured a key piece for their future but also sent a clear message: they’re ready to compete
with the SEC for the nation’s top talent.