The college football recruiting world was shocked to learn Thursday night that Bryce Underwood, who ESPN 300 ranked as the top overall prospect, had switched his pledge from LSU to Michigan.According to reports, Michigan was using every resource in the book to acquire Underwood, the state’s top quarterback for Belleville High School.

Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor is a half-hour’s drive from the high school.
On his Instagram account, Underwood posted a video announcing the news with the phrase, “Hometown Hero.”

This is a big move for coach Sherrone Moore and the Wolverines because the high school athletes’ early signing period is less than two weeks away.

In addition to becoming Moore’s top recruit in his first class, Underwood’s decision to Michigan is creating history as the program’s highest-rated pledge.

After Michigan’s 2023 run for a national championship, Moore succeeded Jim Harbaugh as head coach. Harbaugh had previously been the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers.

Michigan reportedly offered Underwood $10.5 million in NIL money spread over four years, which is a record amount for a player who hasn’t played a college snap, according to On3.

Earlier this month, the article also stated that LSU hoped Underwood would stick with it after he committed to the Tigers in January.

Although the specifics of Underwood’s NIL predicament with the Wolverines are unknown, it’s safe to assume that it contributed to his decision to remain in his home state.

Since Underwood is widely regarded as the top recruit, NIL money at these universities is revolutionizing the recruiting process. We’re witnessing how these programs may use their financial might to acquire some of the top players in the nation.

According to ESPN, Michigan’s interest in Underwood has intensified in recent months, and rumors that Underwood might be flipping were stoked by the decommitment of four-star recruit Carter Smith.

On December 4, Underwood will be able to formally sign with Michigan, becoming the first No. 1 overall recruit to do so since Rashan Gary joined the Wolverines in 2016.