BELLEVILLE, Mich. — Bryce Underwood stood surrounded by a throng of journalists and cameras, visibly relieved as he officially committed to Michigan by signing his National Letter of Intent on college football signing day Wednesday.
“It’s time for the next level,” Underwood affirmed, marking a pivotal moment in his athletic career.
Underwood, regarded as the top player in the nation regardless of position, has experienced a complex recruitment journey. The 6-foot-3, 205-pound quarterback, who played at Belleville High School located roughly 15 miles from Ann Arbor, had initially pledged to LSU almost a year ago.
However, Michigan continued to pursue him relentlessly. Underwood’s commitment to the Tigers came while Jim Harbaugh was still at the helm for the Wolverines. Following Harbaugh’s move to the Los Angeles Chargers, Michigan intensified its efforts to retain Underwood by having first-year head coach Sherrone Moore build a solid rapport with him and his family.
Michigan’s approach also included leveraging its financial backed by an innovative name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal through Champions Circle, which is equipped to draw top talent in a competitive landscape where athletes can earn substantial income. “We are grateful for all the support we are receiving and we acknowledge that this landscape is quite different now,” Moore commented.
Champions Circle formed a collaboration with Oracle founder Larry Ellison and his Michigan alum wife, Jolin, to fortify the effort in keeping Underwood close to home. “My heartfelt thanks go to Larry and Jolin for their critical role in this, offering Champions Circle essential insights and financial assistance,” expressed Nate Forbes, chair of the collective, during the announcement of Underwood’s decision.
Former Michigan star Tom Brady also made connections with Underwood during this successful recruitment attempt. When asked what it felt like to have such influential figures involved in his recruitment, Underwood replied, “It was an amazing opportunity, but my focus is on starting my education and classes.”
Scheduled to enroll next month, Underwood is poised to start workouts at Michigan’s football facilities and anticipates joining the team for bowl practice. “I’m ready to showcase my skills, athleticism, and strive for greatness,” he stated, with aspirations of securing national championships during his time at Michigan.
The Wolverines recently dismissed their offensive coordinator, providing Underwood with an opportunity for substantial playing time, particularly as the current roster lacks a clear standout at the quarterback position. Earlier this season, Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy had even offered $3 million to bring in a quarterback, highlighting the position’s struggles within the team.
Though Moore refrained from discussing Portnoy’s offer, he insisted that the investment in Underwood wouldn’t dictate his playing time. “He’s eager to earn everything he achieves,” Moore remarked. “He’s not looking for anything to be handed to him.”
Underwood’s signing day attracted a significant turnout, filling the cafeteria of his school with members of the media, family, friends, and enthusiastic Michigan supporters. During the event, the Belleville coaching staff gathered behind a line of students also signing their letters, while volunteer assistant coach Connor Stalions smiled for pictures, despite the controversy surrounding his recent resignation in light of a sign-stealing incident linked to the Wolverines’ national championship run.
Beverly Underwood expressed relief later in the evening, echoing her son’s sentiment. “It’s been a whirlwind, but truly a blessing,” she shared. “This has been a dream come true.”
