Solon (Ohio) High linebacker Matt Brown announced via Twitter that he would be pursuing his academic and athletic career as a preferred walk on member of Michigan's football team.
Brown explained why he made the decision he did after being committed to Quinnipiac for some time.
"I grew up a Michigan fan," he said. "Both of my parents are alumni so since I was a little kid I have cheered for and have always wanted to play for Michigan. When they started to show interest in me as a preferred walk on it was a dream come true.
"I share an equal love for football and lacrosse but when comparing the two schools Michigan seemed like a better fit for me. The tradition, the team, the university, the prestigious academics and it being a place that I have loved my whole life are the main reasons why I chose Michigan over Quinnipiac."
Brown's commitment is noteworthy for a few reasons. One, he's the high school teammate of fellow Michigan walk on wide receiver Jake McCurry. Two, he was originally planning to attend Quinnipiac University on a lacrosse scholarship but decided to play football instead. And three, Brown was a member of the Associated Press Division I All-Ohio team in 2016 and also picked up OHSAA Defensive Player of the Year honors. Per USA Today, "Brown was the backbone of a stifling Solon defense that allowed just 15 points per game and advanced to the Division I regional semifinals." He was also third-team Division 1 all-state in lacrosse as a junior.
Brown is listed at 6-0, 220 pounds on his HUDL page and primarily plays middle linebacker but can also line up at fullback. He said that the Michigan coaches told him he could end up at either or. He also says he's comfortable at both and will do whatever is asked of him for the betterment of the team.
