Five-star cornerback Josh Dobson, a native of Cornelius, North Carolina, announced his commitment to the University of South Carolina on Thursday, edging out traditional powerhouses Michigan and Texas A&M.
The decision follows a name, image and likeness package that could reach $1.5 million, the largest offer reported in the 2027 class, according to sources close to the recruit.
Dobson, ranked No. 12 overall in the Rivals Industry Rankings for the 2027 cycle, chose the SEC program after a series of official visits, including a weekend trip to Ann Arbor that highlighted the Wolverines’ defensive depth.
NIL Money Reshapes Recruiting Landscape
Despite the loss, Michigan’s secondary remains fortified, with five defensive backs already pledged, among them four-star prospects. The Wolverines intend to keep pursuing Dobson through the early signing period in December.
The commitment underscores the growing influence of NIL incentives in high-school recruiting, a trend that could reshape how top prospects evaluate college options.