In-state 2026 TE Jack Janda recaps earning Michigan offer, Steve Casula, past visits, more

The latest in-state prospect in the 2026 recruiting class to receive a Michigan offer comes from Detroit Catholic Central.

Jack Janda, a three-star tight end, had the reigning College Football Playoff winners enter the mix following a showcase put on by his school earlier this month.

“It felt amazing,” Janda told The Wolverine. “Definitely felt really good knowing that Michigan likes what I do and they like my skillset. Just growing up in Michigan, always watching them, and seeing how they have been successful is awesome. So, it’s really cool to get an offer from Michigan.”

His performance at the session resulted in Janda getting on the phone with new tight ends coach Steve Casula. It was the first time they connected.

“I thought he was a good guy,” Janda said. “I mean, first thing he asked me about was my family, so that was nice. He gave me a little background story of his coaching, and that was cool. He’s coached at Ferris (State) and other small schools in Michigan. So, he’s been in Michigan, and he coached at Michigan before that.”

Casula was impressed with what he saw from Janda.

“He said I did really good in the workout,” Janda said. “He saw me make this one play, and he was like, ‘Yeah, I’m going to offer this kid. He’s a baller.’”

Growing up in the Metro Detroit area, Janda’s knowledge of Michigan’s recent history is strong, having been to Ann Arbor on two unofficial visits since his freshman year.

“I think they play really tough football,” Janda said. “I think a lot of their guys are all into what they’re trying to build there. I just think it’s a really good coaching staff and they recruit good players that want to play for them.”

As a tight end, Janda has high regard for the way the position has impacted the Wolverines’ offense.

“I think they utilize them really well,” Janda said. “They’re the most versatile tight ends in college football. Definitely do not sleep on Michigan not using your tight ends because I know they will.”

Janda plans on returning to campus next month to camp in front of the entire staff.

“It’s a great atmosphere,” Janda said. “I mean, everyone comes and cheers. The game day atmosphere, all the tailgating, and all the fans are super-pumped up for this year. There’s always over 110,000 there. That’s why I call it The Big House.”

Along with Michigan, Janda holds notable offers from Oregon, Kentucky, West Virginia, Michigan State, Louisville, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Cincinnati, Purdue, and others. At 6-foot-5, 220 pounds, he’s listed as the No. 18 overall tight end in the country and the No. 10 in-state recruit, according to On3.

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