The Michigan Wolverines are hoping their success with past alums helps contribute to their future. With 5-star cornerback Havon Finney Jr. reclassifying from the 2027 class to the 2026 group, Michigan wasted no time in offering him a scholarship in mid-February. 

Now, Michigan has become a "favorite" to land Finney, and he's planning on visiting Ann Arbor sooner than later. His connections to Michigan run deep despite him being from Los Angeles, California. 

A fan of Charles Woodson and training-mate of David Long and Lavert Hill, Finney admitted Michigan's offer "meant a lot."

“That’s pretty big. It’s one of the schools I’ve always liked growing up. Charles Woodson used to be one of my favorite players.”

Finney wants to be developed, built like projected top 2025 NFL Draft prospect and recent Michigan star cornerback Will Johnson at 6-foot-2 and 170 pounds. 

Finney would find the chance to secure early playing time appealing. Academics hold significance for him as well. He doesn't have an exact date locked in yet, but he'll make his way up north soon.

LaMar Morgan, the secondary coach, is his main recruiter. Finney seeks a position coach who can equip him for the next level. He has appreciated his early discussions with Morgan due to his genuine recruiting style.

“It’s a big school. Obviously, you would play against great competition. They’re going to develop you very well….I really just want to see the environment and how the DBs get coached,” Finney said. “And I would say where they see me on the field, what they see me doing for the program.”

A top-90 recruit across all scouting services, Finney peaks as a 5-star for Rivals. He's previously given other schools praise, though.

“Oregon was great. What stood out about Oregon was how they embraced me and made me feel like I was their number 1 recruit at the cornerback position.” 

But USC is still a power in the race.

“That’s the first school I ever fell in love with,” he said to 247Sports. “I grew up watching USC. That’s always been my favorite school growing up, so it meant a lot to me. I’ve been a fan for a long time.” 

Ohio State, UCLA, Texas, LSU, and Texas A&M are still considered possible landing spots for Finney in addition to Michigan, USC, and Oregon.