Michigan made a major stride toward 2015 recruiting success in July when wide receiver George Campbell committed to the Wolverines. Five months later, the 5-star prospect pulled the plug on his pledge to the program by reopening his recruitment.
The decision was widely reported Tuesday evening, but Campbell actually decommitted Friday, according to a report by ESPN's Tom VanHaaren:
Michigan coach Brady Hoke laid early groundwork for an outstanding 2015 class. Campbell was one of six high school juniors committed to the program, including 5-star running back Damien Harris.
He became the third member of the class on July 27, committing during an unofficial visit to Ann Arbor. Campbell joined top-ranked kicker Andrew David and offensive tackle Jon Runyan Jr. at the time.
The 6'3", 184-pound Tarpon Springs, Fla. product picked Michigan from a long list of early offers. Georgia, Florida, Notre Dame, Florida State, Texas A&M and Ohio State are just a few of several BCS squads that extended a scholarship to Campbell during his sophomore year.
247Sports writer Ryan Bartow expects a trio of teams to step up their efforts for Campbell.
The loss of Campbell's commitment is the latest blow to Hoke's recruiting efforts. A lackluster second half of the regular season didn't help his cause and featured some turbulence on the road to national signing day.
Top-ranked defensive end Da'Shawn Hand surprisingly spurned Michigan when he committed to Alabama in November. Coveted Wolverines commit Jabrill Peppers created panic when he revealed intentions to explore other options before reaffirming his allegiance to the program earlier this week.
Though Campbell is no longer a part of Michigan's 2015 class, there's still a possibility he ultimately ends up in Ann Arbor. However, Hoke must vie with a collection of contenders for this services.
Campbell's decommitment stings at Michigan, but the development comes early enough for the program to potentially recover and re-enter the picture during the 5-star talent's recruitment. Expect Hoke and his staff to keep the lines of communication open with Campbell.
For the moment, Michigan must turn its attention elsewhere in search for premier 2015 playmakers. The Wolverines already extended offers to 4-star wide receiver prospects OsaMasina (Salt Lake City, Utah) and Brian Cole (Saginaw, Mich.).
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