Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore stunned the Michigan football community Tuesday morning with a sudden, game-changing update on five-star freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood — widely regarded as the most coveted quarterback recruit in the nation for the 2025 season.
Moore explained with emotion and conviction that Underwood has taken a “personal, unexpected decision that changes the immediate outlook” of Michigan’s quarterback plans.
“After meeting with Bryce and his family, I can confirm that he has decided to take a leave of absence from the team for personal and family-related reasons,” Moore told reporters. “This decision did not come easily for him. We fully back him and will continue to give everything he requires.”
A highly anticipated arrival
Underwood, the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2025 class and a consensus five-star quarterback at Belleville High School in Michigan, was projected to play a large role for the Wolverines, if not take the starting job outright. His arrival in Ann Arbor was viewed as the start of a new era following J.J. McCarthy’s departure, with comparisons to legendary Michigan quarterbacks already made.
Fans had placed their hopes in Underwood’s talent, poise, and leadership. He had already begun spring training and was apparently performing well during early team sessions. However, today’s news raises questions about how and when he will play — if at all — in the 2025 season.
The Reason: Private but Supported
Coach Moore declined to discuss the specifics of Underwood’s personal leave, citing the Underwood family’s privacy, but stressed that “it is not related to legal issues, disciplinary actions, or health concerns.”
“Sometimes in life, the best decision for someone’s long-term growth means stepping away to take care of personal matters,” Moore told me. “Bryce is a remarkable young man with a bright future, and this is just a pause — not an end.”
Team leaders and fellow quarterbacks have already expressed their support. Senior quarterback Davis Warren, who might possibly start in Week 1, tweeted, “We’ve got you, Bryce.” Handle your business. When you’re ready, you’ll find an entire crew waiting for you.
What Does This Mean for Michigan
The absence of Underwood has a huge influence on Michigan’s quarterback depth chart. With uncertainties about who will lead Moore’s first full season as head coach, attention now moves to upperclassmen and redshirt freshman in the quarterback room. Moore and his staff will most likely speed up preparations, with Warren, Alex Orji, and Jayden Denegal vying for the QB1 position in fall camp.
Moore made it plain, however, that the Wolverines’ 2025 aspirations will remain unaltered.
“We are constructing something strong here. “Our culture is about family, support, and next-man-up readiness,” he explained. “We are going to compete. We are going to take the lead. When Bryce returns, he will be greeted with wide arms and a cohesive squad.
Looking ahead.
Bryce Underwood’s future seems as bright as ever, and Michigan supporters are rallying behind him with encouragement and patience. While the timing is surprising, the Wolverines’ message is clear: this program supports its players on and off the field.
Coach Moore stated, “Football is a game.” Life is much larger. Bryce will come back. And when he does, he’ll be better than before.”