Bryce Underwood, the nation’s top quarterback in the 2025 class, nearly committed to LSU over Michigan due to early missteps in his recruitment by former Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Despite being a lifelong Michigan fan and hailing from Belleville, Michigan, just 15 miles from Ann Arbor, Underwood felt Harbaugh did not make him a priority. This lack of effort left the door open for LSU to make a strong impression, ultimately securing a commitment from Underwood for almost a year.
The turning point came when Harbaugh departed for the NFL, leaving Michigan’s recruiting under new leadership. Head coach Sherrone Moore and Associate Athletic Director Sean Magee worked tirelessly to repair Michigan’s relationship with Underwood.
Magee, who brought extensive NFL experience to the program, built a strong rapport with Underwood and his family. By presenting a clear vision of Underwood’s potential role in Michigan’s future, Magee began to bridge the gap that Harbaugh’s initial indifference had created.
Central to this effort was the involvement of Michigan alumnus and NFL legend Tom Brady. As one of the most iconic quarterbacks in football history, Brady became a mentor to Underwood, holding multiple Zoom sessions with the young quarterback. These conversations highlighted Michigan’s legacy of producing NFL talent and emphasized the unique opportunity Underwood would have to follow in Brady’s footsteps.
This personal connection resonated deeply with Underwood, demonstrating the level of support and commitment Michigan could provide.
Another key factor in Underwood’s decision was the local connection. As a Belleville native, the chance to play close to home weighed heavily on his mind. Michigan’s renewed interest coincided with a lackluster season for the Wolverines, showcasing a team in need of a star quarterback to revitalize their program.
Underwood saw the opportunity to not only play at a high level but also become a hometown hero, leading Michigan back to national prominence.
The shift in Underwood’s recruitment also highlighted broader challenges in Harbaugh’s recruiting approach. Known for focusing on team-building rather than aggressively pursuing individual stars, Harbaugh’s philosophy sometimes left top recruits feeling undervalued. While this approach worked in certain cases, it nearly cost Michigan a generational talent like Underwood.
Ultimately, the combination of Moore’s leadership, Magee’s recruiting expertise, and Brady’s mentorship proved pivotal. Underwood’s decision to flip his commitment sent shockwaves through the college football world, positioning Michigan as a contender for future blue-chip recruits.
His presence in the 2025 class, ranked No. 9 nationally at the time of his commitment, is expected to attract additional top-tier talent to Ann Arbor.
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