Phenom Ryerson Edgar ignites Michigan's future, bringing OHL scoring prowess and dazzling puck skills to Ann Arbor. A true "magician" on ice.
Although Michigan hockey is coming off a tough loss to in state rival Michigan State Spartans (split weekend series), they just had a huge win in the recruiting category. The way Michigan plays hockey and their overall record shows that Ann Arbor is a destination for the best of the best.
The University of Michigan’s hockey program, currently ranked No. 2 in the nation, just secured a massive piece of its future. In a move that sent shockwaves through the junior hockey landscape, Niagara IceDogs rookie sensation Ryerson Edgar officially announced his commitment to the Wolverines on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
Edgar, a 16-year-old phenom who has taken the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) by storm this season, is the first player from the 2025 OHL draft class to pledge his NCAA future to a school. The Holland Landing, Ontario native shared the news via Instagram, expressing gratitude to his support system as he prepares for a future under the bright lights of Yost Ice Arena.
"I am very proud to announce my commitment to play hockey at the University of Michigan. Thankful for my family, coaches, teammates, advisors, and everyone who has helped me along the way," Edgar stated.
A Scoring Machine in the OHL
Drafted 10th overall by Niagara in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, Edgar has quickly proven that he belonged in the top five. He currently leads all 2009-born OHL players in scoring and sits fourth among all rookies with 38 points (18 goals, 20 assists).
His commitment comes amidst a blistering hot streak. Edgar is currently riding an eight-game point streak, during which he has tallied eight goals. This consistent offensive production earned him OHL Rookie of the Week honors in late January, cementing his status as one of the most dangerous young forwards in North American hockey.
Scouting Report: Speed, IQ, and "The Cannon"
What makes Edgar such a tantalizing prospect for Michigan head coach Brandon Naurato is his blend of technical skating and raw power. Scouts frequently describe him as a "magician" with the puck. His game is defined by:
- Elite Lateral Mobility: Edgar uses explosive crossovers to gain separation and can change direction at top speed, making him nearly impossible for defenders to corner.
- The "Cannon" Shot: He possesses a high-end shot from the slot that consistently beats goaltenders cleanly.
- Two-Way Intelligence: Despite his offensive numbers, Edgar served as captain for the York Simcoe Express U16 AAA team, noted for his "quiet intensity" and defensive responsibility.
Standing at 5'10" and 161 lbs, Edgar is expected to continue his development in the OHL with Niagara through the 2026-27 season before making the jump to the Big Ten.
The Michigan Pipeline Continues
Edgar’s arrival in Ann Arbor will see him reunited with current Niagara teammate Alex Hage, who is also committed to Michigan. The Wolverines’ ability to recruit high-end talent directly from the OHL highlights a shifting landscape in hockey development, where elite players are increasingly leveraging the flexibility of playing major junior hockey before entering the NCAA system.
Eligible for the 2027 NHL Entry Draft, Edgar is projected to be a high-round selection. By the time he dons the winged helmet, he may very well be one of the most polished freshmen in the country. For Michigan fans, the addition of a player who can "turn defenders inside out" is a clear sign that the program has no intention of relinquishing its spot at the top of the college hockey world.