Michigan running back commit Lundon Hampton began his senior year doing what he does best: score touchdowns.
The in-state 2027 tailback finished with two trips to the end zone Thursday. It marked the start of his final run with Grand Rapids (Mich.) Kenowa Hills in its journey towards reaching Ford Field in late November. Although Hampton’s stat line was a major storyline in the annual Xenith Prep Kickoff Classic at Wayne State University, the loss had a bitter taste to it, meaning Hampton isn’t satisfied.
“Started off a little slow but just felt great to be back out here. Got a lot of things to clean up,” Hampton told Maize n Brew.
A little more than four months remain until Hampton early enrolls in Ann Arbor. Committing to the Wolverines this past May, he spent the summer getting close with the other 20 pledges who make up Michigan’s 2027 class, along with the bond established between himself and the coaches that’s rooted back when he first received an offer this spring.
Hampton was the first running back commit for Tony Alford in the 2027 cycle, and he has kept a consistent line of communication with Hampton’s entire family. The same goes for head coach Kyle Whittingham.
“It’s been great. They’re keeping a good relationship with me and just excited for the offseason,” Hampton said. “They’re always checking up on me. I would say probably once a week. I’m very excited. I get to learn from one of the best coaches (in Alford). A lot of experience in the room that I can learn from.
“I would say (improving) my pad level, get it down a little lower. Get faster, get stronger. My goal is to win a national championship.”
One player in particular within the class Hampton said he’s becoming very close with is four-star cornerback Blake Jenkins, who he described as a “great guy” and “always willing to give a helping hand.”
“I feel like we have a great class,” Hampton said. “We have an opportunity to go win a national championship.”
Michigan is not yet done adding pieces this cycle, as the Wolverines are putting strong emphasis on a handful of uncommitted talent or those expected to sign elsewhere. For example, the staff hasn’t given up on Oregon wide receiver pledge Dakota Guerrant, and Hampton is making sure he does his part in pitching the idea Guerrant staying close to home.
“The best in Michigan stay in Michigan,” Hampton said with a smile.
Once Hampton does put on the winged helmet for the first time, what should fans expect from him?
“Great teammate, a great guy on-and off-the field,” Hampton said. “A leader and a worker who can do it all.”
At 6-foot-2, 203 pounds, Hampton is listed as the No. 29 overall running back in the country, according to Rivals.