No.1 QB Bryce Underwood Flips to Michigan with $10.5M NIL Deal

Nov 21, 2024, 11:35 PM

Bryce Underwood, the top-ranked football recruit in the class of 2025, has flipped his commitment from Louisiana State University (LSU) to the University of Michigan. Underwood, a five-star quarterback from Belleville, Michigan, is considered the No. 1 overall prospect by ESPN and other recruiting services. Drawing comparisons to NFL stars such as Vince Young, Patrick Mahomes, and Lamar Jackson, Underwood is the highest-rated recruit in Michigan's history, marking a monumental victory for head coach Sherrone Moore. Underwood had been committed to LSU since January but announced his decision to switch to Michigan via a 1-minute and 18-second video posted on his Instagram account, captioned "Hometown Hero." ESPN's Adam Schefter broke the news during a SportsCenter segment. The Wolverines reportedly offered Underwood a substantial Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal, with figures mentioned as high as $10.5 million, making it one of the most significant NIL deals in college football recruiting. Underwood's flip moves Michigan up to No. 8 in the On3 sports rankings and is expected to attract more top prospects to the program. The decision is a significant setback for LSU and head coach Brian Kelly, as Underwood's commitment was seen as a cornerstone for their future recruiting classes. His decision comes approximately two weeks before signing day and is poised to revive Michigan's offense.