BREAKING: 4⭐ EDGE Julian Walker Commits to Michigan
Michigan just landed a massive commitment for its 2026 recruiting class as 4-star EDGE rusher Julian Walker (Irmo, SC) announced his pledge to the Wolverines. The 6-foot-6, 230-pound pass rusher chose Michigan over South Carolina, USC, Auburn, and more than a dozen other Power Five programs.
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What Michigan is Getting
Walker is one of the most intriguing EDGE prospects in the country. Standing at 6’6” with long arms and an athletic frame, he has the physical traits that college coaches covet. His explosive first step, length, and ability to bend around the edge make him a nightmare for offensive tackles.
Strengths: Burst off the line, length, athleticism, and versatility to play standing up or with a hand in the dirt.
Development areas: Adding weight (projected to play around 255–265 lbs) and refining secondary pass-rush moves.
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Comparison to Recent Wolverines
Walker’s frame mirrors former Michigan star Aidan Hutchinson, while his athletic upside is reminiscent of David Ojabo during his breakout 2021 season. If developed correctly, Walker could follow in their footsteps as Michigan’s next great EDGE defender.
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Impact on Michigan’s 2026 Class
This is a major recruiting win in the South for Michigan, beating out SEC programs and the in-state Gamecocks for a top target. With Walker on board, Michigan’s 2026 class is shaping up to be elite on the defensive side of the ball, positioning the Wolverines for a Top-10 national ranking if they close on other key targets.
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What’s Next
Walker is expected to redshirt or play situationally as a freshman in 2026 before stepping into a bigger role in Year 2. With his size, speed, and upside, he has the tools to become Michigan’s next dominant pass rusher in the Big Ten.
Go Blue.
