Fort Lauderdale 3-Star Safety Patrick Liburd Commits to Michigan; 2025 Prospect Announces Pledge via Instagram, Citing Strong Fit and Future Vision with Wolverines’ Defense

The Michigan Wolverines have landed another key piece to their 2025 recruiting class with the commitment of 3-star safety Patrick Liburd from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The athletic defensive back made his announcement via Instagram, proudly declaring his decision to join the Maize and Blue with the caption “1000% Committed. #GoBlue” alongside photos in Michigan gear.

Liburd, listed at 6-foot and approximately 180 pounds, has been a rising name in South Florida’s competitive high school football scene. Known for his range, physicality, and instincts in the secondary, Liburd quickly gained attention from several Power Five programs. While he held offers from schools across the ACC and Big Ten, including Pittsburgh, Indiana, and UCF, it was Michigan’s consistent communication and defensive vision that sealed the deal.

“Michigan just felt like home,” Liburd said in a brief statement shared on his story. “The coaches believed in me, the environment is special, and the plan they have for my development is something I couldn’t pass up.”

Michigan’s coaching staff, led by head coach Sherrone Moore and defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, made Liburd a priority throughout the spring. His versatility to play both safety positions and contribute on special teams early was a key reason the Wolverines pursued him aggressively. Sources indicate that Martindale, in particular, was impressed with Liburd’s football IQ and ability to diagnose plays quickly — traits highly valued in Michigan’s evolving defensive scheme.

Liburd’s commitment marks another important step for Michigan as they continue to rebuild and reload following a successful stretch that included a national championship in the 2023 season. Though ranked a 3-star by most recruiting services, Liburd is seen by some analysts as a high-upside talent with the potential to rise in the rankings during his senior year.

“Don’t let the stars fool you,” said one South Florida scout. “Patrick is a baller. He’s coachable, smart, and plays with an edge. Michigan is getting a kid who wants to be great.”

At his high school, Liburd served as a captain and tone-setter on defense. He was often asked to cover the opposition’s top receiving threat, while also providing run support near the line of scrimmage. His physical playing style and vocal leadership made him a standout among teammates and a respected presence in the locker room.

The Wolverines’ 2025 class continues to take shape, and Liburd’s addition helps bolster a secondary that is expected to lose several veterans to the NFL over the next two seasons. With early enrolling a possibility, Liburd could arrive in Ann Arbor next January to get a jump on his transition to college football.

As for Liburd, the next few months will be about finishing strong in his senior season, staying healthy, and staying locked in on his goals.

“I’m just grateful for the opportunity,” he added. “Now it’s about working harder than ever and proving Michigan made the right choice.”

With the addition of Patrick Liburd, Michigan’s defensive future looks a little brighter — and a lot tougher for opposing offenses.