The Michigan Wolverines landed 2026 four-star DL Alister Vallejo last week, a physical and mobile wrecking ball with a lot to like in his game. Here is what we saw from his film:
The Michigan Wolverines picked up a crucial commitment last week from defensive lineman Alister Vallejo. At 6-foot-3, 300 pounds, the Liberty Hill, Texas native is a four-star prospect and a consensus top-50 defensive lineman in the 2026 recruiting cycle.
Upon watching his film, it is not hard to see why he is so highly regarded.
The first thing that stood out about Vallejo’s game was his hands. They’re violent, decisive, and one of the main reasons why he is so productive as a pass rusher (18 sacks over his sophomore and junior seasons) despite primarily operating from the interior. Vallejo can chop down linemen, or get them moving east-west and shake them for a quick win.
Then comes the versatility. Vallejo is a big man up front who can anchor the heart of a defense and make life miserable for running backs. He can stuff interior linemen with his impressive strength, or fight through blockers to make a play outside the pocket. He also has the athleticism and skillset to line up out wide and take on his tackle with speed rushes.
Physically, Vallejo seemingly has all of the tools to wreak havoc at the collegiate level. He’s a legitimate 300-pounder, but can also track down ball carriers even from the other side of the field. That motor and meanness once he gets his hands on you scream future star.
Vallejo also does not waste opportunities. He loves to hit and uses vicious take-downs to instill fear in offensive players.
There are not many critiques of Vallejo, an imposing figure with lots of tricks up his sleeve. Once he gets you moving, it’s over. However, Vallejo also tends to play a little too upright and does not always maximize his leverage. He still possesses solid technique and a variety of pass-rushing moves, so it should not take long for him to correct these imperfections.
He is explosive, smart and crafty enough to avoid “one-dimensional” labels.
Vallejo is an exciting player, and considering the Wolverines’ track record of developing elite defensive linemen lately, there are few reasons why he can’t be the next great.
Vallejo joins three-star edge Tariq Boney and four-star edge/defensive lineman McHale Blade as the core of Michigan’s 2026 unit. They all bring something different to the table and should have opportunities to play alongside each other in the years to come.
The other important element of Vallejo’s commitment is that Michigan beat out Notre Dame for both he and Blade’s services. Even coming off a down season, the Wolverines can still boast monsters like Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant and sell those visions to recruits.
Congrats to Vallejo on his commitment, and especially head coach Sherrone Moore and defensive line coach Lou Esposito for this massive get.