"12 million you liar": CFB fans react to $2.2 million NIL-valued Michigan signee Bryce Underwood talking about being a future Wolverine
Bryce Underwood, the nation’s top quarterback and No. 1 overall recruit in the 2025 class, flipped his commitment from LSU to Michigan. Reports of an unprecedented NIL deal fueled the buzz. LSU’s reported four-year, $6 million offer was trumped by Michigan, whose collective allegedly secured a deal worth between $10 million and $12 million over four years.
Underwood addressed his decision in a video shared on X, introducing himself as a future quarterback for the University of Michigan. He captioned the post:
"It is what it is."
He emphasized the broader picture beyond financials, saying:
"No matter what business, it's business. I'd say that as far as the resources I will have, the education I will end up getting, the legacy I will build at home. So it's really nothing like much that somebody can show or say if they don't know the full situation."
His statement fueled a flurry of reactions, both supportive and critical.
“12 million, you liar,” one fan said.
““business is business” bro definitely regretting the decision already,” another said.
"Buddy couldn’t beat Howell or get out of his regional with a super team, doubled down on his loyalty to LSU, and sold out for a bag," a fan uttered.
Here is how other fans expressed their reactions:
"Bryce after handing the ball off 90% of the game while Michigan barely finishes .500 “It is what it is”" a fan remarked.
"Damn u could’ve been great. It’s a damn shame," a fan said.
"August 29th? F**k that you got the spring game man!" another said.
While NIL seemingly played a role, Underwood’s choice seemed influenced by Michigan’s long-term vision and other personal factors.
The Wolverines, amid a busy December transfer portal window, added offensive lineman Brady Norton (Cal Poly), wide receiver Donaven McCulley (Indiana), defensive tackle Damon Payne (Alabama), and defensive backs Tevis and TJ Metcalf (Arkansas).
Head coach Sherrone Moore has not outlined specific plans for Underwood, but signs point to him starting as a true freshman in 2025. Key moves, such as firing offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell and seeing reserve quarterbacks Alex Orji and Jayden Denegal enter the transfer portal, suggest Michigan is clearing the way for its star recruit to shine.
Bryce Underwood and Michigan's QB future
Bryce Underwood, Michigan's prized quarterback recruit for 2025, enters with ideal NFL size and an impressive 4.58-second 40-yard dash.
While Underwood's arrival generates excitement, Michigan’s quarterback room has undergone significant changes. Davis Warren, a veteran QB, steadily earned his role during the 2024 season after starting the year as an overlooked option behind Alex Orji.
Orji, known for his dual-threat potential, failed to secure the job, entering the transfer portal after being unable to replace Warren in Week 4. Warren completed 61.6% of his passes and managed the offense effectively in key games this season.
Michigan coach Sherrone Moore outlined the characteristics of his ideal QB:
“A guy that is going to be a great leader, a great teammate, (someone that) obviously has the ability to play and a great fit,” Moore was quoted as saying by the Detroit Free Press. “That’s gonna be the No. 1 piece.”
Comparatively, former Michigan starter J.J. McCarthy arrived with a 4.89 40 time out of high school and improved to a 4.48 during his pro day, showcasing the transformative impact of Michigan’s strength and conditioning program.