When the talk of 2025 prospects began a few years ago, one in-state player who was making significant waves as a potential Wolverine was Belleville (Mich.)'s four-star safety, Elijah Dotson. Initially, there seemed to be a disconnect between Dotson and Michigan after Sherrone Moore took over the program in 2024. But Michigan football didn't give up and intensified their recruitment of Dotson late into the 2025 recruiting cycle. They managed to get him on campus for both the Michigan State and Oregon games, which ultimately led to a flip. Dotson committed to the Wolverines.

Breaking the Commitment: From Pitt to Michigan

The 6’2, 180-pound cornerback from Detroit, MI, had been committed to the Panthers since May. But now, he's a Wolverine, and he couldn't be happier. "I'm home, Go Blue man!!" he exclaimed. This flip has sent shockwaves through the recruiting world and is a significant boost for Michigan.

Recruiting Services Rankings

According to various recruiting services, Dotson's ranking is impressive. 247Sports Composite ranks him 4th overall, 304th in position, and 30th in state. On3 Industry Ranking also places him 4th, 157th in position, and 20th in state. 247Sports has him at 4th, 118th in position, and 10th in state. On3 has him at 4th, with no specific position ranking but 31st in state. ESPN ranks him 4th, with no specific position ranking but 21st in state. Rivals has him at 4th, 125th in position, and 52nd in state. These rankings show his high potential and the interest he has generated from different recruiting platforms.

Versatile Player with Multiple Positions

Though expected to play safety, Dotson's skills and abilities make him a versatile player who could also play cornerback or even wide receiver. He is one of five-star QB Bryce Underwood's favorite targets at Belleville. This versatility gives Michigan more options and flexibility in their defensive and offensive strategies. 247Sports' Allen Trieu provided a scouting report that highlights his skills. He has played safety, corner, receiver, return man, and even some wildcat quarterback in high school. He has above average size and plays physically, putting his face in the action in run support and getting his hands on receivers in man-to-man coverage. His receiver background helps with his ball skills. He is versatile and can play deep in the secondary or come into the box. Most likely, his projection is safety, but it's not out of the question for a school to try him as a big corner. His track background speaks to his athleticism, and he has enough straight-line speed to recover and run down plays.

Adding to Michigan's Defensive Lineup

Getting Dotson in the fold is a major achievement for Michigan. He joins safety Kainoa Winston and cornerbacks Shamari Earls and Jayden Sanders in the class. The Wolverines are also still working on Oregon commit Brandon Finney. With these talented players, Michigan's defense is looking strong. Dotson's presence will add depth and competition to the team, helping them improve and achieve their goals.