Bio Blast: Meet five-star Michigan EDGE commit Carter Meadows

Five-star Washington (D.C.) Gonzaga EDGE Carter Meadows officially signed with Michigan on Wednesday.

Here is everything you need to know about the talented pass rusher.

The Skinny

Height: 6-6.5
Weight: 235
Industry Ranking: No. 2 EDGE, No. 6 overall
Interesting Facts: Also lettered in basketball and helped lead Gonzaga to a state title as a junior. Was an AAU basketball teammate of fellow Michigan EDGE commit Tariq Boney. Nephew of former Philadelphia 76ers head coach Randy Ayers. Is colorblind.

Recruitment

Michigan made Meadows one of its top priorities and was able to seal the deal with him in late June. Meadows valued what Michigan had to offer on and off the field and picked the Wolverines over fellow finalists Ohio State and Penn State. Michigan defensive line coach Lou Esposito led the way in his recruitment.

He Said It

“What Gonzaga values as important, Michigan values as important. That really gave me that home feeling. Michigan reminded me of where I’ve been these last four years. I just wanted to be up there…. I’m a student athlete, not an athlete student. I want to set myself up for life and success after football. I think Michigan can help me get there.”

They Said It

“At the end, Michigan was the right fit because they had high-level academics and football. But I have to start with the people — the players, the coaches and the recruiters. From Coach (Sherrone) Moore to (Director of Recruiting) Sam Popper to (Director of Academic Services) Claiborne Green to a young staffer who drove us around in the golf cart — the people stood out. Then you look at the stellar academics. Kids are fighting to get into Michigan. Then you talk about the tradition, the high-level football and the ability to develop him. You put all that together, and I felt early on that it was a very good fit for Carter. Michigan knows who they are as a program, and they do a great job of articulating that to families. That’s important.” — Meadows’ father, Michael

Scouting Report

“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.” — Rivals Rankings Director Charles Power