In a significant recruiting coup, the Michigan Wolverines have secured a commitment from Elijah Dotson, a highly-touted four-star defensive back from Belleville High School. Dotson, who had previously committed to Pittsburgh in May, announced his decision to flip to Michigan on Wednesday afternoon, declaring, “I’m home, Go Blue man!!” ([thebulletintime.com](https://www.thebulletintime.com/sports/michigan-football-scores-major-recruiting-win-with-hometown-stars-commitment/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 180 pounds, Dotson is ranked as the #2 player in Michigan and is among the top prospects nationally in the 2025 class. His versatility on the field is noteworthy, having excelled in multiple positions, including safety, cornerback, wide receiver, return specialist, and even as a wildcat quarterback. Recruiting analyst Allen Trieu highlights Dotson’s physical style of play, noting, “He’s a violent striker who delivered even more impact as a tackler his senior year.” Dotson’s track background further enhances his athletic profile, providing him with the speed to recover and chase down plays. ([thebulletintime.com](https://www.thebulletintime.com/sports/michigan-football-scores-major-recruiting-win-with-hometown-stars-commitment/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
This commitment is particularly significant as Dotson is teammates with Bryce Underwood, the nation’s top-ranked player in the 2025 class, who is currently committed to LSU. Underwood showed support for Dotson’s decision by posting “DOT” on Instagram with crossed fingers emojis, fueling speculation about his own recruitment status. ([thebulletintime.com](https://www.thebulletintime.com/sports/michigan-football-scores-major-recruiting-win-with-hometown-stars-commitment/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Dotson’s decision to join Michigan comes at a time when the Wolverines are experiencing a surge in recruiting momentum. The program recently secured a commitment from quarterback Bryce Underwood, the nation’s No. 1 recruit, who flipped from LSU to Michigan. This move has been seen as a turning point for Michigan, both on the field and in its recruiting strategy, particularly in the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) era. ([espn.com](https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/43209489/michigan-wolverines-bryce-underwood-recruiting-ohio-state?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
With Dotson’s addition, Michigan’s 2025 recruiting class now boasts 19 commitments and ranks 11th nationally according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. His commitment strengthens Michigan’s defensive backfield with a player who brings both physical tools and tactical versatility. As one recruiting expert put it, Dotson has “a great combination of size, ball skills, physicality, and instincts that project him as an impact player in college.” ([thebulletintime.com](https://www.thebulletintime.com/sports/michigan-football-scores-major-recruiting-win-with-hometown-stars-commitment/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Looking ahead, all eyes will be on Michigan Stadium this Saturday for the final home game of the season. The big question is whether Bryce Underwood will be spotted on the sidelines, which could signal another potential shift in this evolving recruitment story. For now, Michigan fans can celebrate landing a hometown star in Dotson, marking another victory in the program’s efforts to keep Michigan’s top talent within state borders. ([thebulletintime.com](https://www.thebulletintime.com/sports/michigan-football-scores-major-recruiting-win-with-hometown-stars-commitment/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
– [thebulletintime.com](https://www.thebulletintime.com/sports/michigan-football-scores-major-recruiting-win-with-hometown-stars-commitment/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
