New Michigan Man: 2018 OG Emil Ekiyor

While most, including myself, were watching out for a commitment out of the visiting 2017 recruits, it was a 2018 recruit that decided to commit during his trip to the Michigan-Wisconsin game. And it’s a big one, both literally and figuratively, as Cathedral (IN) OG Emil Ekiyor has committed to Michigan.

Scouting Report

Ekiyor is one of the top ranked offensive lineman and players in the 2018 class thanks to his size and technical skills. At 6’3” 325 pounds, most think he’s all just size and strength but he’s not a top tier prospect for that reason alone. He’s also sneaky athletic and has very good feet for a player of his size. He shows the ability to pull, get out in space and make blocks down the field like a player half his size. Because of his mix of size, strength and athleticism, he looks to be a perfect fit at the guard position throughout his collegiate career.

Big, powerful lineman who is light on his feet and finishes his blocks. Can still improve overall pass pro technique.” – Scout.com

Recruitment

Michigan was actually the first program to offer Ekiyor on the recruiting trail. Since that offer (March 2015), Michigan has looked like a favorite for the top player in the state of Indiana. Though it wasn’t a slamdunk for the Wolverines throughout. Tennessee was the program most analysts had their eye on as a potential landing spot for Ekiyor but thanks to the power running game, academic advantages, longtime recruitment and unofficial visit for the Wisconsin game, the four star guard decided to end his recruitment and commit to the Wolverines.

  • Height: 6’3”
  • Weight: 325lbs
  • Hometown (School): Indianapolis, IN (Cathedral)
  • Notable Offers: Tennessee, Florida, Florida State, Michigan State, Georgia, Oklahoma, USC
  • Rankings: Scout (4*, #124 overall) – Rivals (4*, #127 overall) – 247Sports (4*, #131 overall) – ESPN (4*, #131 overall)
  • Composite Ranking:4 star, #110 overall, #4 OG, #1 in Indiana

Highlights

As for the Rest of the Class

Ekiyor is the 5th 4th 3rd 2nd member of the 2018 class and the only offensive lineman committed. After already dealing with three decommitments from the class, Michigan looks to still be sorting out exactly who they want to be in this much smaller class (15-18ish). Some names to keep the closest eye on moving forwards includes Ekiyor’s teammate and Notre Dame commit, RB Markese Stepp, as well as QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, WR/TE WIll Mallory, OT Antwan Reed, OT Penei Sewell and OG Marquan McCall.

Photo Credit: Bryan Fuller/MGoBlog

Garrett Fishaw