Michigan Wolverines Pull Off Blockbuster Recruiting Win, Secure Commitment from 5-Star Edge Defender Tariq Boney, Nation’s No. 1 Pass Rusher, in Major Boost to 2025 Class and Future Championship Aspirations

Michigan Wolverines Pull Off Blockbuster Recruiting Win, Secure Commitment from 5-Star Edge Defender Tariq Boney, Nation’s No. 1 Pass Rusher, in Major Boost to 2025 Class and Future Championship Aspirations

The Michigan Wolverines made a major statement on the recruiting trail Monday morning, securing a commitment from 5-star edge defender Tariq Boney, one of the most sought-after defensive prospects in the 2025 class. Boney’s decision to join Michigan over a host of national powerhouses cements the Wolverines’ reputation as a premier destination for elite defensive talent.

The 6-foot-5, 245-pound pass rusher from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, announced his commitment via a live broadcast on social media, donning a maize and blue cap and flashing a wide grin. Boney chose Michigan over finalists Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, and Florida State, citing the Wolverines’ culture, coaching staff, and player development track record as key factors.

“From the first time I visited Ann Arbor, I felt something special,” Boney said during the announcement. “The coaching staff made me feel like family, and I know they have a proven history of developing guys like me into NFL players. I’m ready to get to work and help Michigan win championships.”

A Game-Changer on the Defensive Line

Boney is widely regarded as one of the premier edge defenders in the 2025 cycle. Ranked as the No. 8 overall player nationally and the No. 1 edge rusher by 247Sports Composite Rankings, Boney brings a rare combination of size, speed, and technical refinement. His explosiveness off the line, violent hands, and relentless motor have drawn comparisons to former Michigan star Aidan Hutchinson, now an NFL standout.

During his junior season at St. Thomas Aquinas, Boney racked up 82 tackles, 21 sacks, and 34 tackles for loss, wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks and anchoring one of the most dominant defenses in Florida high school football. His disruptive presence earned him All-State honors and placed him firmly on the radar of every major college program in the country

“He’s the kind of player who changes the complexion of your entire defense,” one scouting report read. “Offensive coordinators have to gameplan around him. He’s a nightmare to block one-on-one.”

Why Michigan?

Michigan’s reputation for developing NFL-ready defenders played a significant role in Boney’s decision. The Wolverines have sent a parade of pass rushers to the NFL in recent years, including Hutchinson, David Ojabo, and Rashan Gary. Boney said he envisions himself following in their footsteps.

“Coach (Sherrone) Moore and Coach (Mike) Elston laid out a vision for me — not just to be successful in college but to become a first-round draft pick,” Boney said. “They’ve done it before, and I trust they can help me reach my full potential.”

The Wolverines’ success on the field also made an impact. Michigan is coming off back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances and a national championship win last season, reestablishing themselves among college football’s elite programs. Boney’s commitment is a testament to the Wolverines’ rising national profile under Moore’s leadership.

The Impact on Michigan’s 2025 Class

Boney’s pledge gives Michigan a massive boost in the 2025 recruiting rankings. With his commitment, the Wolverines now have three 5-star recruits in the fold and are firmly in the hunt for the No. 1 overall class. Boney joins 5-star quarterback Julian Lewis and 5-star cornerback Marcus Glenn, forming the foundation of what could be a historic haul for the program.

Moreover, Boney’s commitment could have a domino effect, attracting other elite defensive prospects to join him in Ann Arbor. Michigan is heavily pursuing other top targets like 5-star defensive tackle Zion Patterson and 4-star linebacker Kameron Howard, both of whom are close friends with Boney.

“This is the type of commitment that builds momentum,” said national recruiting analyst Brian Dohn. “Boney is a magnetic personality and a proven winner. Other elite players will want to line up next to him.”

What’s Next for Boney

Boney plans to graduate early and enroll at Michigan in January 2025, allowing him to participate in spring practices and acclimate to the college game. He emphasized his commitment is “100% locked in” and said he intends to shut down his recruitment completely.

“I’m done with visits. I’m a Wolverine,” Boney said with a smile. “I can’t wait to get up there and start working.”

Michigan fans certainly share his excitement. Within minutes of Boney’s announcement, social media lit up with celebration as Wolverine faithful welcomed their newest star defender.

As the Wolverines continue to build for the future, landing Tariq Boney marks a monumental step forward. A true game-changer off the edge, Boney represents the next chapter in Michigan’s proud tradition of defensive excellence — and he’s already setting his sights on making an immediate impact when he arrives in Ann Arbor.

“I’m coming to Michigan to dominate,” Boney said. “Simple as that.”