Summer recruiting’s final stretch is upon us, and 5-star WR Calvin Russell is a name none are forgetting to mention. Why? Because the top-32 national prospect and No. 4 wide receiver in the 2026 class will finally announce his college commitment this Saturday, July 5—his birthday. But who’s it going to be? Hard to say now, but early predictions have turned rather interesting.

To be more specific: This Miami Northwestern standout has electrified the 2026 recruiting cycle with his dynamic playmaking and exceptional skills, attracting attention from college football’s top programs. After all, his impressive last season’s record of 35 catches for 645 yards with 11 touchdowns in 12 games at Miami Northwestern is no mean feat, isn’t it? After extensive visits, discussions, and deliberation, Russell has narrowed his choices to six: Florida State, LSU, Miami, Oregon, Michigan, and Syracuse. But as decision day nears, two schools have emerged as frontrunners.

A source close to Calvin Russell said on July 4 that Michigan and Syracuse are now even. Oregon is still making the push, but the optimism is fading quickly in Tallahassee. Best part? The source leaned toward Michigan, stating, “Michigan/Syracuse, my gut says Michigan.” But what are we hearing from Russell himself?

The wide receiver—who helped his school go 20-3 during the regular season and win both the district and GMAC titles as an 11th grader—after his official visit to Ann Arbor on June 20 had openly told On3‘s EJ Holland, “I’m a playmaker, and they need playmakers. Bryce Underwood wants to play with a playmaker. I know they need me and not just want me.” However, Syracuse’s consistent recruiting efforts keep them firmly in the competition, too. But before we get to that…

What’s also a hurdle for Sherrone Moore is that his 2026 class WR room is already filled with top talents. They have 3-star WR Jaylen Pile, 4-star Travis Johnson, and Zion Robinson on their team. So, with such a crowded room, there is a chance that Calvin Russell might face some competition. Despite that, Moore’s team earned a late final official visit and made an instant impact on him. “I had a nice time with Bryce Underwood,” Russell said. “He can throw it, so I felt like it was a good fit.” Looks like Moore is trying to secure Bryce Underwood’s supporting troops.

Moore’s extended pitch that went beyond the field also worked in their favor. “The life after football was a big thing with my official visit. Other than that, just the guys being around, great people around the building,” the young player said. With the decision imminent, Michigan has the advantage, but let’s just not count Syracuse out of the fight yet.

Calvin Russell’s inclination toward Syracuse

Now, Michigan is surely at the top of the list for Calvin Russell’s commitment, but even Fran Brown’s team isn’t giving up. With 25 commits in the team, Syracuse is already making a notable presence in his 2026 class. On top of that, they also have WRs Amare Gough, Darnell Stokes, Phoenix Henriquez, and BJ Garrett, which makes their WR room pretty strong. But let’s be real: A five-star commitment will make a huge difference.

Syracuse’s success is largely due to the Syracuse HC, who spearheaded recruiting from the outset. “The relationship with Fran since day one is holding strong against Michigan’s resources. Calvin is a loyal guy but also wants to play on the biggest stage,” a source told On3‘ Steve Wiltfong. That loyalty keeps Syracuse competitive despite Michigan’s national reach and considerable resources.

Yet, facing stiff competition, especially concerning NIL deals where Michigan has an advantage with Larry Ellison’s support, Syracuse might face a challenge.

Now, let’s just wait and see which team finally lands this explosive wideout.