The college football world is shocked when the five-star quarterback declines $6.7 million, decommits from Colorado, and switches his commitment to the LSU Tigers from Notre Dame and Florida State Seminole.
In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through college football, five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood has decommitted from LSU and flipped his commitment to the Michigan Wolverines. The 6-foot-4, 208-pound dual-threat quarterback from Belleville, Michigan, had been committed to LSU since January 2024, but recent developments, including a significant NIL offer and the influence of NFL legend Tom Brady, led him to reconsider his decision.CBSSports.comNew York Post+1SI+1
Underwood’s commitment to LSU was a significant coup for head coach Brian Kelly and the Tigers’ recruiting efforts. As the No. 1 quarterback and the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2025 recruiting class, Underwood’s decision was seen as a major step forward for LSU’s program. The Tigers had been successful in recent years, producing Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Jayden Daniels and consistently competing at a high level. Underwood’s commitment was expected to bolster LSU’s offense and solidify its position among the nation’s elite programs.SICBSSports.com
However, in November 2024, Underwood announced his decision to flip his commitment from LSU to Michigan. The move was unexpected, given his longstanding commitment to the Tigers. Several factors contributed to his decision, including a substantial NIL offer from Michigan’s Champions Circle collective and the persuasive efforts of head coach Sherrone Moore. Reports indicated that Michigan offered Underwood a four-year, $10.5 million NIL deal, significantly higher than LSU’s reported $6 million offer over the same period .CBSSports.com+5New York Post+5FOX Sports+5New York Post+1New York Post+1
Additionally, the influence of Tom Brady played a pivotal role in Underwood’s decision. Brady, a Michigan alumnus and former NFL star, developed a relationship with Underwood through FaceTime conversations and offered to be a resource for him. This connection resonated with Underwood, who had deep ties to Michigan and a desire to play for his home-state team .New York Post+1SI+1FOX Sports+1New York Post+1
Underwood’s commitment to Michigan marks a significant milestone for the Wolverines’ football program. He becomes the first No. 1 overall recruit to commit to Michigan since defensive lineman Rashan Gary in 2016 . His arrival is expected to bolster Michigan’s offense and provide a potential franchise quarterback for the program. Underwood’s blend of size, arm talent, and athleticism has drawn comparisons to NFL stars, and he is considered a future top-five pick in the NFL Draft .New York Post+2CBSSports.com+2FOX Sports+2
As a freshman, Underwood will compete for the starting quarterback position with sophomore Jadyn Davis and senior incoming transfer Mikey Keene. His presence is expected to revitalize Michigan’s passing offense and contribute to the program’s aspirations for a national championship.Wikipedia
Underwood’s decommitment and subsequent commitment to Michigan have left LSU’s coaching staff and fans reeling. The Tigers had invested significant time and resources in recruiting Underwood, and his decision to flip has been a blow to the program’s future prospects. LSU’s offense has struggled in recent seasons, and Underwood was seen as a potential catalyst for a resurgence. The loss of such a highly touted recruit raises questions about the Tigers’ recruiting strategy and their ability to retain top talent.New York Post+1CBSSports.com+1SINew York Post
Bryce Underwood’s decision to flip his commitment from LSU to Michigan is a testament to the evolving landscape of college football recruiting, where NIL deals and personal connections play increasingly significant roles. His commitment to Michigan not only strengthens the Wolverines’ program but also underscores the importance of in-state recruiting and the influence of alumni in shaping a recruit’s decision. As Underwood prepares to embark on his college football journey, all eyes will be on Michigan to see how his presence impacts the team’s performance and future success.
