At the stroke of midnight on Sunday, running back Jonathan Brown, a native of Columbus, Ohio, announced his commitment to Michigan as a part of the Wolverines' 2026 recruiting class. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound three-star running back played his high school career at St. Francis de Sales, which sits in the shadow of Ohio Stadium.
Brown committed to the Wolverines over Rutgers and two military academies, including Air Force and Army. According to 247Sports, Brown didn’t receive an offer from Ohio State as a Columbus native.
“I’ve faced many challenges on my recruiting journey, including false promises and being overlooked despite my strong character, good upbringing, impressive grades, and athletic skills,” Brown told 247Sports’ Allen Trieu after his commitment. “Yet, I believe God has always guided my path. Michigan recognized these qualities in me, which is why it feels like the perfect place to call home.”
In his junior season at St. Francis de Sales, Brown rushed for 1,295 yards and 16 touchdowns, which earned him all-conference and all-state honorable mentions.
Brown has shown off his speed as a running back in front of Michigan coaches at football showcases. At the Under Armour’s Ohio camp, Brown ran a 4.56 40-yard dash. He also ran a 4.5 40-yard dash at Michigan’s camp earlier this week.
Brown is the first running back and the 11th prospect to commit to the Wolverines' 2026 recruiting cycle.