Bryce Underwood’s Future Looms Large as Michigan Looks to Rebound Under Kyle Whittingham
Michigan’s 2025 season didn’t end the way the Wolverines had hoped. A loss to Texas in the Citrus Bowl capped off a year that, while promising at times, ultimately fell short of the program’s lofty expectations. But with a talented roster still very much intact and a new head coach in Kyle Whittingham taking the reins, there’s a renewed sense of possibility in Ann Arbor heading into 2026.
At the heart of that optimism? Bryce Underwood.
The five-star quarterback and former top recruit showed flashes of brilliance in his freshman campaign, and while the Citrus Bowl didn’t go Michigan’s way, it served as another valuable chapter in Underwood’s early development. Now, the spotlight shifts to his next move. Underwood has said he’ll sit down with his family to evaluate his future, and the decision he makes could shape the trajectory of Michigan’s program under Whittingham.
But the new head coach isn’t waiting quietly on the sidelines-he’s making it clear just how much he values his young quarterback.
“Terrific kid,” Whittingham said of Underwood during an appearance on ESPN. “Just carries himself the right way.
Carries himself like a quarterback would carry himself. Has that it factor.
In addition, had a chance to meet with his parents-great parents and great family. He’s the right man to lead this football team.”
That’s not just coach-speak. That’s a coach planting his flag.
Whittingham sees in Underwood what Michigan fans have been hoping for-a poised, confident young quarterback with the tools and temperament to lead a national contender. And despite the ups and downs that come with any freshman campaign, Underwood showed he belongs on the big stage. His poise, arm talent, and leadership traits are already turning heads, and Whittingham is clearly all-in on building around him.
The head coach’s public praise also feels like a subtle but strategic pitch. Whittingham isn’t just complimenting Underwood-he’s laying the groundwork for a long-term relationship, one that could define his tenure in Ann Arbor. And while Underwood hasn’t made anything official yet, the sense around the program is that he’s leaning toward staying.
Still, nothing’s set in stone.
Until Underwood makes his decision, Michigan fans will be holding their breath. The potential is obvious: with Underwood under center and Whittingham at the helm, the Wolverines could be right back in the College Football Playoff conversation next fall. But that vision hinges on one very important choice.
For now, all eyes are on Bryce.