WAYNE — Kareem Walker’s recruitment came to a close today, but it’s only the beginning for the Wolverines.

Walker, the No. 1-ranked running back recruit in the country, chose the University of Michigan over four other finalists during an announcement ceremony here at DePaul Catholic High School.

The First Team All-State senior and five-star recruit chose Michigan over Florida State, Auburn, Alabama and Arizona State.

“Coach (Bryan) Murray told me since the middle of junior year that the process was going to be long and trying," Walker said. "I am ready to wrap up that process by announcing my commitment to earn my degree and play football at the University of Michigan — Go Blue!”

The pick was not a surprising one, but Walker said he stayed up until 1:30 a.m. picking between Michigan and Florida State.

Walker originally committed to Ohio State during last season's National Championship but reopened his recruitment on Nov. 3 following an official visit to Ann Arbor.

The vibe was always blue from that point forward.

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Walker played with a Michigan towel on his waist during DePaul's state semifinal win over Delbarton and solidified the swap this morning in front of his friends and family.

Walker is the latest prospect from New Jersey to give his pledge Michigan, joining a group of three other standouts ranked in upper part of The NJ.com Top 50.

Walker will join defensive end Ron Johnson and wide receiver Brad Hawkins from Camden as well as Cedar Creek wide receiver Ahmir Mitchell as part of Michigan's sixth-ranked recruiting class.

With Paramus Catholic's Rashan Gary, the No. 1-ranked recruit in the country, still on the table, can Michigan secure commitments from the top two prospects in the Garden State?

Time will tell, but for now, Michigan landed Walker, who ran with plenty of power, speed and agility during his time in Wayne.

In his final season, Walker went on a postseason tear to lead the Spartans to their third straight championship season and finished with 1,517 yards and 13 touchdowns. He averaged 7.1 yards per carry and 126.4 yards per game.

"Im going to miss being able to walk out on the field with the guys I was with since freshman year when nobody even knew my name," Walker said. "They were there since the beginning and it's going to be tough to leave them."

Pat Lanni may be reached at planni@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @PatLanniHS. Like NJ.com Football on Facebook.