5-star OT Andrew Babalola signs with Michigan Wolverines

Overland Park (Kan.) Blue Valley Northwest five-star offensive tackle Andrew Babalola has signed with Michigan.

The 6-foot-5.5, 295-pounder is the No. 15 overall prospect and No. 3 OT in the 2025 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the top-ranked recruit in Kansas.

Babalola’s recruitment was kept close to the vest until he announced his decision on Oct. 21. The likes of Stanford and Auburn appeared to have the momentum for his pledge at different times this year, but the Wolverines were a constant contender and finally emerged this fall — thanks to head coach Sherrone Moore and the culture he’s continuing in Ann Arbor.

“The reason why Michigan won out overall is I believe in coach Moore’s vision. Obviously it’s tough sledding right now, but overall I love that program,” Babalola told On3 upon announcing his commitment. “Love the coaches, the players, the recruiting class. It just came down to me believing in coach Moore and believing in Michigan. I can’t wait to be a part of the family.”

Landing Babalola helped the Wolverines kickstart a push into the top 10 of the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings. U-M has been one of the hottest teams on the recruiting trail down the stretch, with Babalola and Five-Star Plus+ quarterback Bryce Underwood, the nation’s No. 1 recruit, now headlining the pledge list.

“For me it just felt like home. When I stepped on campus for the first time and as well when I came for my OV, it felt like home all the time. Overall, I’m very happy I made this decision,” Babalola said.

Andrew Babalola Scouting Summary

On3’s scouting and rankings team writes this of Babalola as a prospect:

“Immensely gifted offensive tackle who has the physical traits and athletic ability to develop into one of the top prospects at the position in the 2025 cycle. New to football, playing his first year of varsity action as a junior, previously being a basketball-first athlete. Measured in at over 6-foot-5, 295 pounds with 34 ⅜ inch arms prior to his senior season. Added around 20 pounds as a junior. A naturally flexible athlete. Has a flat back in his stance and plays low, sinking his hips to drive up through defenders. A strong functional mover. Moves well and shows light feet. Has good balance and shows a strong base, playing with his feet rooted in the ground.

…Shows surprising and borderline startling play strength for a developmental tackle. Consistently manhandles defensive linemen at the point of attack. Sustains blocks with his strong grip strength and often finishes with authority, planting defensive linemen in the dirt. Shows an encouraging level of physicality and nastiness. Will need to continue honing his overall technique, particularly in pass protection. Just scratching the surface of his considerable potential and could challenge as the top tackle in the 2025 cycle with continued development.”