Michigan secured a remarkable victory on National Signing Day as five-star offensive tackle Ty Haywood signed with the Wolverines.
The 6-foot-5, 285-pound lineman from Ryan High School in Denton, Texas, made his decision official during a signing ceremony, choosing Michigan over Florida State and Texas Tech.
Highlights
- As a single mother of three, Leatha Gary worked tirelessly in multiple roles to support her children, ultimately guiding her son, Ty Haywood, toward a successful football career.
- Despite hardships, Leatha remained steadfast in her faith, relying on her creativity and determination to provide for her children while sharing their journey with a growing online community.
- Ty’s strong bond with his family played a key role in his college decision and Michigan’s welcoming environment for his loved ones.
Haywood, ranked as ESPN’s No. 16 overall recruit and third-ranked offensive tackle in the 2025 class, joins an impressive Michigan recruiting class.
He is the second-highest-ranked Wolverines’ 2025 group member, behind only five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood.
Haywood didn’t find the path to Michigan straightforward.
He initially committed to Alabama but chose not to sign during the early signing period in December.
After decommitting from the Crimson Tide last month, Haywood found his new home in Ann Arbor following a pivotal official visit on January 17.
Talking to ESPN, Haywood said,
“We all have the same mindset of winning. We’re going to go in and do what we’re supposed to do. But we’re also going to have fun with this process and this next chapter of life.”
ESPN
Head coach Sherrone Moore and offensive line coach Grant Newsome played crucial roles in securing Haywood’s commitment.
Their background in offensive line play and approach to player development resonated with the young tackle. Haywood noted,
“Coach Moore is a former offensive lineman and Coach Newsome is a great guy. Those guys understand what it takes to prepare every day, workout and win games.”
ESPN
Leatha Gary, Ty Haywood’s Mother, Balanced Multiple Jobs To Create A Better Future For Her Children
In Charleston, Mississippi, Leatha Gary dreamed of building a better life for her children.
As a single mother of three, she wore many hats – hairstylist, seamstress, designer, and most importantly, a pillar of strength for her family.
Among her children was Ty Haywood, a young boy who would grow to stand 6-foot-5 and become one of the nation’s most sought-after football prospects.
Life in Charleston had challenges, but Leatha never let hardship dim her determination.
She channeled her creative energy into multiple ventures, building a following of over 3,800 on social media as she shared her journey as a digital creator.
Her hands could style hair one moment and craft beautiful designs the next, all while ensuring her children – Dee, Ty, and little Kelis – never miss out on opportunities to pursue their dreams.
The family’s path led them to Denton, Texas, where new possibilities awaited.
While Dee found his calling as a semi-truck driver back in Charleston, Ty’s star began rising on the Ryan High School football field.
Through every practice, every game, and every recruiting visit, Leatha stood by her son’s side, documenting their journey and sharing their blessings with her growing online community.
While little is known about Ty’s biological father, it came to light that in early 2019, Leatha married a man named Sam.
Unfortunately, it seems Leatha is no longer with him as she has openly disclosed her relationship status as single.
But through all of life’s changes, her focus remained unwavering – supporting her children’s dreams.
When Ty’s recruitment heated up, she turned to her faith for guidance. She would often say,
“We took it to God, and God ordered our steps.”
Facebook
The journey culminated in a moment that brought tears to Leatha’s eyes – watching her son sign with the University of Michigan.
Emotions overwhelmed her as she entered the signing ceremony room at Ryan High School.
Her social media posts that day told the story of a mother’s pride: “GOD’S PLAN” and “proud mommy moments” captured the culmination of years of sacrifice and dedication.
Today, Ty Haywood stands as one of the top recruits in the 2025 class, but to Leatha, he remains her “Big Guy” – the humble young man who, together with his siblings, gave purpose to her every endeavor.
Ty Haywood Comes From A Close-Knit Family With Strong Faith And Unity
Born October 22, 2006, Ty is 18the middle child among three siblings.
His elder brother, Dee Haywood, is a semi-truck driver in Charleston, Mississippi.
His younger sister, Kelis Haywood, completes the family trio.
The family’s strong faith and unity have been crucial in Ty’s journey.
Haywood emphasized how Michigan’s coaching staff made his family feel welcome during his college selection process. He explained,
“They made sure my mom was OK. They made sure my brother who came with me had fun. When you pick a place, it’s not only for you, it’s for your family. That’s part of what did it for me.”
ESPN
This family-first approach, combined with Michigan’s strong football tradition and development track record, makes the Wolverines an ideal fit for Haywood as he begins the next chapter of his athletic career.
Additional Information
- He’s a talented multi-sport athlete who excels in track and field, recording an impressive shot put throw of 58-foot-6.
- His scouting report projects him as a potential correct tackle with versatility to play guard at the college level.
- He was ranked as the No. 42 overall prospect and No. 10 offensive tackle, specifically by 247Sports, offering a different perspective from his ESPN rankings.
