Michigan Football Secures Game-Changing Commitment: Five-Star Freshman Chris Henry Jr. Chooses Wolverines Over OSU, Gamecocks, and Oregon
In a monumental development for Michigan football, five-star wide receiver prospect Chris Henry Jr. has committed to the Wolverines, choosing them over the Ohio State Buckeyes, South Carolina Gamecocks, and Oregon Ducks. This decision marks a significant victory for Michigan’s recruiting efforts and sets the stage for a promising future for the program.
A Rising Star in High School Football
Chris Henry Jr., a 6-foot-5, 205-pound wide receiver from Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California, has been a standout in high school football. Ranked as the No. 1 wide receiver in the 2026 recruiting class by ESPN, Henry Jr. has drawn comparisons to NFL legends due to his exceptional skills and physical attributes. His high school coach, James Griffin, remarked, “The kid has everything — he’s just like his dad. He’s working his butt off to be elite like that every day.” Griffin further compared Henry Jr. to NFL greats, stating, “I saw Calvin Johnson live in the flesh. And I saw Larry Fitzgerald. I saw Chris’ daddy, too. To see somebody like him with that long frame move and get out of a cut like he can, I was like, ‘Wow.’ He’s Plaxico Burress mixed with Calvin Johnson and a little bit of Charles Rogers when he was at Michigan State. He is freaking special, bro.” citeturn0search0
Recruitment Journey and Michigan’s Pursuit
Henry Jr.’s recruitment journey has been closely watched by college football enthusiasts. Initially committed to the Ohio State Buckeyes in July 2023, he has since attracted attention from several top programs, including Michigan. Michigan’s coaching staff, recognizing his potential, made a concerted effort to recruit him, emphasizing the opportunity to play alongside elite quarterback prospect Bryce Underwood and the program’s commitment to developing NFL-caliber talent. The Wolverines’ strong NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) backing also played a crucial role in their pursuit of Henry Jr. citeturn0search5
The Commitment Announcement
On February 9, 2025, Henry Jr. announced his commitment to the University of Michigan, choosing the Wolverines over the Ohio State Buckeyes, South Carolina Gamecocks, and Oregon Ducks. This decision has been hailed as a game-changer for Michigan football, signaling the arrival of a player with the potential to make an immediate impact on the field. The announcement was met with widespread acclaim from fans and analysts alike, who view Henry Jr.’s commitment as a testament to Michigan’s growing appeal to top-tier talent. citeturn0search2
Impact on Michigan’s Program
Henry Jr.’s commitment is expected to have a significant impact on Michigan’s football program. His exceptional skills and physical attributes make him a formidable weapon in the passing game. Teaming up with quarterback Bryce Underwood, who is also a five-star prospect, could form a dynamic duo capable of elevating Michigan’s offense to new heights. The addition of Henry Jr. is anticipated to bolster Michigan’s receiving corps and provide a reliable target for Underwood, enhancing the team’s prospects in the upcoming seasons.
Looking Ahead
As Henry Jr. prepares to join the Wolverines, all eyes will be on his development and integration into the team. His commitment underscores Michigan’s commitment to recruiting elite talent and building a program capable of competing at the highest levels of college football. With Henry Jr. on board, Michigan fans have much to look forward to as the team aims to capitalize on this significant addition to their roster.
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