News Summary

The Michigan Wolverines football program has landed a significant commitment from four-star offensive tackle Malakai Lee, who announced his decision during a live conference. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 318 pounds, Lee is ranked as one of the top offensive tackles nationally. This marks a key addition to Michigan’s 2026 class, which now includes 16 recruits, showcasing the program’s strong recruiting efforts. Lee’s commitment follows numerous visits and highlights Michigan’s ability to attract talent from across the country.

Ann Arbor, Michigan – The Michigan Wolverines’ football program has secured a significant commitment from four-star offensive tackle Malakai Lee, who hails from Kamehameha High in Honolulu, Hawaii. Lee made his announcement on Friday, June 27, during a live news conference held at his high school, signaling his decision to join the Wolverines over other elite college football programs including Alabama, Georgia, and Texas.

Standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 318 pounds, Lee is recognized as a highly skilled player in his position. He is ranked No. 181 overall nationally by 247Sports and holds the No. 137 spot in the 247Sports Composite rankings, where he is also recognized as the 10th-rated offensive tackle. His athletic ability has led to an invitation to participate in prestigious events such as the 2026 Navy All-American Bowl and the Polynesian Bowl.

Lee’s commitment marks him as the 16th overall recruit joining Michigan’s 2026 class, which is currently ranked No. 13 in the nation after the addition of Lee and another commitment earlier in the day. This latter commitment came from three-star linebacker Markel Dabney, who switched his commitment from SMU to Michigan. Dabney stands 6 feet 1 inch and weighs 205 pounds, with a ranking of 34th in Virginia according to 247Sports.

Lee’s decision followed a series of official visits to his finalists, with his last visit to Michigan occurring from June 20 to June 22. He reported that the visit provided clarity regarding his choice, reinforcing his fondness for the university and the community of Ann Arbor. Michigan’s coaching staff is optimistic about Lee’s potential, given that 247Sports national recruiting analyst Greg Biggins characterized him as a “fluid mover” boasting excellent footwork, balance, and the physical attributes suitable for playing tackle on either side of the line in college football.

Lee is the third offensive lineman to join Michigan’s recruiting class, complementing four-star interior lineman Bear McWhorter and three-star tackle Marky Walbridge. The Wolverines have notably added six players ranked among the top 200 in this 2026 cycle out of a total of 15 commitments, signaling a fruitful recruiting period, especially as numerous commitments have occurred in June.

This commitment highlights the Wolverines’ continuing efforts in bolstering their future roster, showcasing their ability to attract talent from across the country. With the strength of their current recruiting class, Michigan aims to maintain competitive advantages in upcoming seasons in the highly competitive landscape of college football.