In a shocking twist in the 2024 recruiting cycle, five-star wide receiver Brenen Thompson has decommitted from the University of Oklahoma and committed to the University of Michigan, bypassing the advances of powerhouse programs such as Ohio State and Alabama. The Texas native made the announcement on social media, sending ripples through the college football recruiting world.

Thompson, a dynamic playmaker from Spearman High School in Texas, had initially pledged to Oklahoma in the summer of 2023. His decision to flip to Michigan comes after months of speculation and recruitment battles, with the Wolverines emerging as the clear favorite in the final stretch. The 6-foot, 170-pound receiver, known for his blazing speed and exceptional route-running ability, had been pursued heavily by some of the nation’s top programs, including the Buckeyes and Crimson Tide. However, it was Michigan’s family atmosphere, recent success, and ability to showcase his talents in a high-powered offense that ultimately convinced Thompson to make the change.

Why Michigan?

For Thompson, the appeal of Michigan was undeniable. The Wolverines have been on an upward trajectory in recent years, winning back-to-back Big Ten championships and making consecutive appearances in the College Football Playoff. The opportunity to play for head coach Jim Harbaugh, who has developed a reputation for maximizing the talent of his wide receivers, was a key factor in his decision.

“The culture at Michigan just felt right,” Thompson explained in his announcement. “It’s a place where I can thrive, learn, and compete for championships. The coaches are passionate about developing players, and they’ve shown they can put receivers in the spotlight. I want to be part of something special here.”

Another key factor was Michigan’s ability to offer Thompson early playing time in a high-profile offense that has consistently produced NFL-caliber talent. With the departure of top receivers, Thompson will likely be given an opportunity to make an immediate impact and contribute to a receiving corps poised to build on last season’s success.

The Loss for Oklahoma

For Oklahoma, Thompson’s decommitment stings. Head coach Brent Venables had worked diligently to secure the top receiver in the class, and Thompson’s commitment was seen as a major coup for the Sooners. However, Thompson’s change of heart highlights the fluid nature of recruiting, as even the strongest commitments can shift in a matter of months.

The loss of Thompson leaves a significant void in Oklahoma’s 2024 class. The Sooners will now need to shift their focus to other wide receiver targets, as they look to bolster their receiving corps and build around their current commitments.

Ohio State and Alabama’s Missed Opportunity

Thompson’s final three schools — Michigan, Ohio State, and Alabama — were all in the mix to land one of the most coveted prospects in the nation. Ohio State, known for its prolific passing attack and ability to develop wide receivers, seemed like a natural fit for Thompson, especially after the Buckeyes lost a pair of star wideouts to the NFL. However, despite the strong pitch from head coach Ryan Day and the Ohio State staff, Thompson ultimately felt that Michigan was the better fit for his style of play.

Alabama, another premier destination for elite wide receivers, also made a strong push. The Crimson Tide’s track record of producing NFL-ready talent at the position is unmatched, but Thompson felt that Michigan’s culture and vision for his future were more aligned with his aspirations.

Impact on Michigan’s Recruiting Class

Thompson’s commitment to Michigan is a massive boost to the Wolverines’ recruiting class. As the 5th-ranked wide receiver in the 2024 class and the 28th overall recruit, Thompson brings both skill and star power to a class that already includes several top-tier players. His commitment gives Michigan one of the top receiving threats in the country and solidifies their place as one of the top programs in the nation.

Michigan fans are elated by the news, as Thompson’s addition fills an immediate need for the team and sets the stage for another elite-level offense in the coming years. The Wolverines now look poised to continue their recruiting momentum as they prepare for a potential national championship run in the next few seasons.

Final Thoughts

Brenen Thompson’s decision to decommit from Oklahoma and flip to Michigan is a major development in the 2024 recruiting cycle. His choice to bypass Ohio State and Alabama for the Wolverines speaks volumes about Michigan’s rising stature in college football and its ability to recruit elite talent. As the dust settles, Thompson will look to make an impact in Ann Arbor and continue Michigan’s quest for greatness in the years to come.