The Michigan Wolverines are back in the running for one of the best quarterbacks in the 2026 class: top-100 four-star Brady Smigiel.
The 6-foot-5, 205-pounder from Newbury Park, California, committed to Florida State last June but dropped out on Sunday night. According to On3’s Hayes Fawcett, Smigiel is now considering Michigan, Ohio State, Michigan State, Washington, UCLA, and South Carolina, thus the Seminoles appear to be out.
The Wolverines were one of Smigiel’s top alternatives before accepting the commitment of Brady Hart, who reclassified to the 2025 class and signed with Texas A&M. With a significant need at the position this cycle, Michigan has an opportunity to make a bold move and sign another highly regarded athlete at a position that should always be prioritized on the recruiting trail.
Smigiel had a very outstanding junior season in 2024, completing 219-of-336 passes (65.2 completion %) for 3,521 yards, 49 touchdowns, and only three interceptions. He also rushed for 435 yards and 11 touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility as a larger-bodied quarterback.
Greg Biggins of 247Sports scouted Smigiel last April and had this to say:
Smigiel is a big, strong-armed pocket passer who has produced impressive stats since his freshman year. He performed admirably at the recent Under Armour Next Camp in Southern California, with a tighter release and his customary precision across all three levels of the field. He’s incredibly accurate down the field, knows how to change speeds and throws with great touch, but he can also put a lot of heat on his throws when necessary. He is a tough guy who will stand in and take a shot without flinching. Excellent natural leader, locker room person, and teammate. Very high football IQ; his father is a coach, therefore he is familiar with the game and has a natural feel for playing the position. Has good pocket mobility, isn’t a tremendous runner, but can buy time and makes good throws outside the pocket. Projects as a top major Power 4 prospect with Sunday upside.
The only two quarterbacks in this class with Michigan ties — albeit early ones given the recent hiring of offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey — are five-star Ryder Lyons and four-star Oscar Rios. The board will most certainly be increased, but the Wolverines should have plenty of talented prospects at the position.
According to 247Sports’ aggregate rankings, Smigiel is the fifth-best quarterback and number 63 overall in his class.
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