Top Quarterback Prospect Bryce Underwood Commits to Michigan, Flipping from LSU

Bryce Underwood, a five-star quarterback and the top ranked prospect in the 2025 class, has changed his college commitment from Louisiana State University (LSU) to the University of Michigan. Underwood made this announcement through a video shared on social media on Thursday, captioned «Hometown Hero,» marking a significant moment for Michigan’s recruitment efforts.

Underwood, standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds, hails from Belleville, Michigan. He is considered the leading pocket passer in his class and with his decision, he has now become the highest-rated offensive recruit in Michigan’s program history. His move is also a vital element in forming Sherrone Moore‘s initial recruiting class as head coach, which currently ranks at number 14 according to ESPN‘s team rankings for the 2025 cycle.

The last-minute switch comes in the midst of significant quarterback movements for the 2025 class, prior to the early signing period set for December 4. Underwood’s decision follows a decommitment from LSU, where he had pledged since January 6, emerging as a key recruit in Brian Kelly’s 2025 class. Sources indicate that Michigan maintained contact with Underwood throughout his senior year at Belleville High School, intensifying their efforts with a compelling Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) package.

With Underwood’s commitment, Michigan secures a potentially transformative player less than a year after Sherrone Moore took over from Jim Harbaugh, who led the Wolverines to a national championship win in 2023. This commitment also signifies a pivotal achievement, as Underwood would be the first number one recruit at Michigan since 2016 when defensive tackle Rashan Gary signed on.

The Wolverines have struggled to find a suitable successor for their 2024 national title-winning quarterback, Cade McNamara. In this season marked by change, Michigan traversed through several options amid a 5-5 start. The team is now looking to Underwood to bring vital stability to the quarterback position as Moore transitions from a turbulent first season.

Underwood’s high school career at Belleville has been marked by tremendous success. He gained national attention in 2021, throwing for 2,888 yards and 39 touchdowns in his freshman season. As a junior in 2023, he completed 64.8% of his passes for 3,329 yards and 44 touchdowns, guiding his team to consecutive state championships. Now, entering the state playoffs, Underwood and Belleville are considered strong contenders to claim their third state title in four years.

Adding to the story of his recruitment, NFL legend Tom Brady, a Michigan alumnus, has been influential throughout Underwood’s decision-making process. Brady reportedly engaged with Underwood via FaceTime, offering mentorship to the young quarterback. Michigan’s successful bid for Underwood’s commitment also involved significant efforts from their NIL collective, Champions Circle, backed by prominent supporters like Larry and Jolin Ellison.

Jolin Ellison, a Michigan alumna, expressed her enthusiasm, «I am a big fan of the University of Michigan and Michigan Athletics. We are excited to support our student-athletes, so they can compete at the highest level in college sports.»

As the ninth-ranked class nationally for 2025 per 247Sports’ composite team rankings, Michigan has landed a second five-star commitment in Underwood, joining offensive tackle Andrew Babalola.