Ann Arbor, MI – University of Michigan freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, a former highly touted LSU commit, has addressed recent online speculation suggesting a potential reconsideration of his college choice. In an interview aired Friday, Underwood firmly reiterated his commitment to the Wolverines, putting an end to rumors that gained traction on social media over the past week.
The chatter began circulating with whispers of alleged issues surrounding Underwood’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Michigan. These rumors, largely fueled by rival fan bases, particularly those of Ohio State, suggested that the Wolverines had failed to meet the financial terms of their agreement with the five-star quarterback, leading him to potentially explore other options, including a return to LSU.
However, speaking on the “Kickin It With Dee” podcast, Underwood set the record straight. When asked about the rumors linking him back to LSU, the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2025 class was unequivocal in his response.
“I’m a Wolverine,” Underwood stated firmly. “I’m here in Ann Arbor, I’m enrolled, and I’m focused on working hard and getting better every day for this team. The rumors online, that’s all they are – rumors. There’s no truth to them.”
Underwood, who had been committed to LSU for over 300 days before a late push from Michigan swayed him in November, emphasized that his decision to ultimately choose the Wolverines was based on a holistic evaluation of the program and the university, not solely on NIL considerations.
“Education was a big thing for me,” Underwood explained in the interview. “Michigan probably has one of the best educations in college, period, outside of Ivy League schools. That’s one of the things that stood out. It had nothing against LSU or anything like that. It was mainly my family and the best situation for me. So, that was the main part.”
He further elaborated on what made Michigan the right fit, stating, “I felt it was the right decision for me, successful-wise, outside of football and in football. All the way around, I feel like I’d be perfectly fine. Also, with the support system [in Michigan] as well, with me being in my home state.” Underwood hails from Belleville, Michigan, a short drive from Ann Arbor.
The reaffirmation of Underwood’s commitment comes as a significant relief for Michigan fans and the coaching staff, particularly head coach Sherrone Moore, who took over the program following Jim Harbaugh’s departure. Landing Underwood was a major recruiting victory for Moore in his first year at the helm, and his presence is expected to be a cornerstone of the Wolverines’ future.
Underwood’s high school accolades speak for themselves. A four-year starter at Belleville High School, he amassed a remarkable 50-4 record, leading his team to two Division I MHSAA State Championships. He accounted for over 12,000 all-purpose yards and 179 total touchdowns during his prep career.
At 6-foot-4 and weighing around 210 pounds, Underwood possesses a rare blend of size, arm talent, and athleticism that has drawn comparisons to former Texas Longhorns legend Vince Young. His ability to make throws with velocity and touch, coupled with his developing skills as a runner, has many projecting him as a future franchise quarterback at the collegiate and potentially professional levels.
While the rumors of a potential flip back to LSU created a stir, they always appeared unlikely given Underwood’s enrollment at Michigan in December and his participation in spring practices. He even showcased his talent in the Wolverines’ spring game in April, throwing for 187 yards and a touchdown.
For LSU and their head coach Brian Kelly, the focus now remains on solidifying their 2025 recruiting class and developing the quarterbacks currently on their roster. While missing out on a talent like Underwood is undoubtedly a setback, the Tigers have been active in the transfer portal and continue to recruit high-level prospects.
The LSU coaching staff has also been actively pursuing talent in the 2026 and 2027 recruiting cycles, extending offers to several highly-rated players, including prized Louisiana wide receivers Braylon Calais and Easton Royal. These efforts indicate a continued commitment to building a strong and competitive program in Baton Rouge.
Meanwhile, in Ann Arbor, the Wolverines can now fully focus on preparing for the upcoming 2025 season with their prized freshman quarterback firmly in their plans. Underwood’s strong statement should quell any lingering doubts and allow both the player and the program to move forward with certainty. The “hometown hero” is staying home, and Michigan fans have every reason to be excited about the future under center.
