Breaking News: Astonishingly, 7 feet 4 and 363 pounds Elijah Dotson, a four-star cornerback, has switched his commitment from Pitt to Michigan, he says.

Astonishingly, 7 feet 4 and 363 pounds Elijah Dotson, a four-star cornerback, has switched his commitment from Pitt to Michigan, he says read More…

In an unexpected turn of events, Elijah Dotson, one of the top-rated cornerbacks in the 2025 recruiting class, has made a shocking decision to switch his commitment from the University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) to the University of Michigan. The towering 7 feet 4 inches, 363-pound athlete has been a hot commodity in the college football recruiting world, with his impressive combination of size, skill, and athleticism making him a coveted prospect for top programs across the nation.

Dotson’s switch to Michigan has sent shockwaves through the football community, as the 2025 recruit was previously committed to Pitt for several months. The announcement, which was made on his social media accounts earlier today, has raised a lot of questions regarding his decision and the impact it will have on both programs.

A Truly Unique Athlete

At 7 feet 4 inches tall and weighing in at 363 pounds, Dotson’s physical attributes are nothing short of extraordinary. While the size is typically more associated with a defensive lineman or offensive tackle, Dotson’s agility and speed for a player of his stature make him a remarkable outlier. His ability to cover ground quickly and his exceptional leaping ability make him an impressive cornerback despite his massive frame.

Many in the recruiting world have likened him to a hybrid player, with the combination of size, athleticism, and intelligence on the field making him a rare prospect. Dotson’s ability to overpower wide receivers while also showcasing impressive footwork has led scouts to believe he can thrive in multiple defensive schemes. This versatile skill set is one of the primary reasons he’s been coveted by some of the nation’s top programs, including Michigan and Pitt.

Why the Switch to Michigan?

Dotson’s decision to leave Pitt, after committing to the program only months ago, has left many wondering what prompted the change. In his statement, Dotson explained that his decision was based on a combination of factors, with a primary focus on the opportunity for development at Michigan.

“I’ve been blessed to receive countless offers from elite programs, and after careful thought, I believe that Michigan is the best place for me to continue my growth as a football player and person,” Dotson wrote in his social media post. “The coaching staff, the facilities, and the tradition of excellence at Michigan are unmatched. I’m excited to be part of something special.”

Michigan’s longstanding reputation for developing elite defensive players, combined with its recent success under head coach Jim Harbaugh, seems to have been a key factor in Dotson’s decision. The Wolverines have consistently produced NFL-caliber defensive backs, and Dotson sees this as an opportunity to maximize his potential.

It’s also worth noting that Dotson is known for his high football IQ and strong work ethic. Michigan’s coaching staff, led by defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, is known for molding athletes into future pros. Dotson’s fit with Michigan’s defensive schemes, including their emphasis on aggressive coverage and physical play at the line of scrimmage, could be another reason why he decided to make the switch.

What This Means for Pitt

Pitt’s loss of Dotson is certainly a blow to the program. As one of the top cornerback recruits in the nation, Dotson was seen as a foundational piece of Pitt’s defensive future. His size, combined with his ability to play press coverage and shut down wide receivers, would have made him an immediate impact player for the Panthers.

Head coach Pat Narduzzi and his staff had invested significant time and resources in recruiting Dotson, and this setback will force the program to reassess its defensive back recruiting strategy. While Pitt still has a strong class of incoming players, losing Dotson stings, especially considering his potential to become a standout player on the national stage.

The Big Picture

While this shift in commitment may seem surprising given Dotson’s size and strength, it reflects the ever-changing nature of college football recruiting. Players, their families, and their advisors are carefully evaluating what is best for both their athletic and personal development, and Michigan appears to have provided Dotson with an environment that aligns with his goals.

As for Michigan, the addition of Dotson strengthens an already impressive 2025 class. His unique physical profile and potential to become an elite cornerback in college football make him an exciting prospect for Michigan fans. If he continues to develop at the pace many expect, he could become one of the most dominant defensive players in the nation.

With this news, Michigan continues to cement its place among the elite programs in college football, while Pitt now faces the challenge of finding a new standout recruit to fill the void left by Dotson.

Stay tuned for further updates as this high-profile commitment continues to make waves in the college football world. For now, Dotson’s commitment to Michigan has certainly made one thing clear: his future is bound for greatness.