On3 5-star EDGE Carter Meadows chooses Michigan

Washington (DC) Gonzaga On3 five-star edge Carter Meadows has committed to Michigan.

The 6-foot-6.25, 225-pound Meadows chose to play for head coach Sherrone Moore and the Wolverines over his other favorites in Ohio State, Penn State and South Carolina.

“I think it was a mix of on the field, off the field things. When I went up there for my OV the culture I could feel in the building was different and I want to be part of it.

“I think their history of winning and tradition and upholding their standard of excellences in all walks of life, on the field, off the field that’s what makes it special.”

On3 ranks Meadows as the nation’s No. 2 edge and No. 6 prospect overall. The On3 Industry slots him No. 6 and No. 36 respectively.

Meadows becomes commit No. 18 for Michigan and the jewel of a class that previously ranked No. 11 nationally. Moore was heavily involved in recruiting Meadows along with defensive coordinator Wink Martindale and defensive line coach Lou Esposito.

“I think my relationship with the coaches,” Meadows said. “Coach Espo, Coach Moore, Coach Wink I’d love to play in that NFL style defense and I have a great relationship with all of them and that’s what sealed it.”

Michigan got the last official visit

Meadows took trips to all of his finalists with Michigan getting its return the weekend of June 20.

“It was great,” Meadows said. “It was great to be up there. I think learning about that Michigan tradition, what that means and getting around the guys and feeling that culture for a couple days.”

Meadows is done with visits and plans to lock in a decision date soon. Michigan continues to give him a lot to think about.

“They’re definitely high on my list,” Meadows said. “A lot of interest in them. I think their balance of high-level academics and high-level athletics it balances pushes them forward.”

Meadows felt great around the Michigan staff and loves his fit in the scheme.

“Their overall team culture is great and my overall connection with Coach (Lou) Espo(sito), Coach Wink (Martindale) and Coach Moore is strong and I also like Coach Wink’s NFL experience.”

Scouting Carter Meadows

On3’s Director of Scouting Charles Power is bullish on Meadows.

“Rangy EDGE prospect with a rare combination of frame and movement skills. One of the most physically impressive prospects in the 2026 cycle. Measured in at around 6-foot-6, 225 pounds as a junior. Has vines for arms that measure around 35 inches to go with large hands. Could easily be a 280-pounder before it’s all said and done. 

“Pairs the great frame with impressive functional athleticism A fluid, flexible athlete who has excellent bend. Has the natural tools to develop into a dangerous pass rusher down the line. Length pairs with good play strength to result in an effective edge setter. Also shows his athleticism in tracking down plays in pursuit. 

“Doubles as a good high school basketball player while playing top competition on the hardwood. Will need to continue progressing as a pass rusher while upping his production. Pure physical upside is among the highest in the 2026 cycle.”