SHOCK:Four-star recruit Stephen Herron flips commitments from Michigan to Stanford
Stephen Herron, a four-star weakside defensive end prospect, stated on July 23 that he had switched his Michigan commitment to Stanford. Herron was a valued commitment, and his decision diminishes the depth of the Wolverines’ defense. He is ranked fifth at his position and 86th overall.
Herron’s departure dropped Michigan’s 2019 recruiting class to second in the Big Ten, right behind Ohio State, and ninth in the country. Following a very strong recruiting session in late June, the Wolverines saw their ranking rise to third overall.
For Herron, academics alone were the basis for the decision. Even though Michigan has a stellar reputation and offers top-notch education, the recruit was unable to resist the academic opportunity that comes with being a Cardinal.
That is why Herron made up his mind the moment he got the letter of approval to go west. “It is more than football to me,” Herron told WolverinesWire. “I did not believe I could afford to attend Stanford. A Stanford education would mean a lot, even though I understand that a Michigan education is not far away.
It is clear from his public remarks and interactions with the team that Herron has the utmost regard for Michigan, and his choice is unrelated to the Wolverines’ football program or recruiting practices.
“At Michigan, I cherished the family element,” Herron remarked. “I went into our group chat and informed the other 2019 commits that I would be decommitting, even after I had informed the coaches, and I wished them all the best. I wish those guys and the coaching staff all the best. I am giddy with anticipation for them. It felt wonderful to be a part of that family.
