Michigan football is working hard to build a strong team for the future. At the end of June, the Wolverines made a big push by bringing top high school quarterback Bryce Underwood and five-star 2026 wide receiver recruit Calvin Russell together for an official visit.
Michigan hopes to create a powerful offense by pairing these two talented players. This story explains why these visits matter, what the coaches are planning, and how these choices could shape Michigan’s football program.
2026 WR Recruit Calvin Russell’s Visit Highlights Michigan’s Recruiting Plan
During his recent official visit to Ann Arbor, Calvin Russell talked about why Michigan is one of his top choices. Russell is a top-ranked wide receiver in the 2026 class, ranked No. 4 at his position and No. 21 overall by 247Sports.
Currently, Russell is considering several schools, including Michigan, Florida State, Oregon, Miami, Syracuse, Florida, LSU, and North Carolina. He plans to announce his college decision on Saturday, July 5.
Russell said that meeting Underwood was a big part of his visit. Underwood, who is the No. 1 quarterback in the 2025 class, was Russell’s player host. The coaching staff, led by head coach Sherrone Moore, wants to bring in top players who can help the team win.
“It was nice hanging out with him,” Russell said. “He made sure that I knew he wants me to be his receiver one day. He needs me to be his receiver.” He added, “Bryce Underwood wants to play with a playmaker.”
“I’m a playmaker, and they need playmakers. Bryce Underwood wants to play with a playmaker.”
Five-star WR Calvin Russell (@14gump_) goes in-depth on Michigan, forming bond with @BryceUnderwoo16, basketball offer from Dusty May & much more #GoBlue. https://t.co/Oy2nhfDO5p pic.twitter.com/x68vGMBukD
— “EJ Holland” (@EJHollandOn3) July 2, 2025
Offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey, who joined Michigan in December 2024, told Russell that the team plans to throw the ball more this season. In the past, Michigan’s offense focused on running the ball, but Lindsey wants to make the passing game a bigger part of the team’s plan.
This change is important because it could help Michigan attract more talented receivers like Russell.
“He’s going to throw it,” Russell said. “That was pretty much it. He said they are going to throw it. I’m a playmaker, and they need playmakers. Bryce Underwood wants to play with a playmaker. I know they need me and not just want me.”
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Russell is also interested in playing basketball in college. During his visit, he met with Michigan basketball head coach Dusty May. May, who used to coach at Florida Atlantic, has known Russell since he was in ninth grade. He told Russell that he could play as a shooting guard or small forward if he chooses to play basketball at Michigan.
Last season, Michigan ranked 130th in passing yards per game with 133.6 yards and 73rd in rushing yards with 157.2 yards. These numbers show that the team relied heavily on running the ball.
With Underwood expected to start as a true freshman, the Wolverines hope to balance their offense by passing more. This could help them win more games and attract even more top recruits in the future.
By focusing on bringing in top players like Russell and changing their offensive style, Michigan is working to build a team that can compete for championships. The choices made this summer could have a big impact on the team’s success for years to come.