Five-star LSU QB commit Bryce Underwood reportedly offered $5 million NIL package to flip commitment

By Maliha

Modified Oct 30, 2024 15:10 GMT

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Five-star LSU quarterback commit Bryce Underwood has not visited any other school since pledging to the Tigers in January. However, Sherrone Moore's Michigan is making a strong last-minute push to flip the No. 1 QB prospect in the country ahead of National Signing Day.

Moore and the Wolverines reportedly presented Underwood with an NIL offer matching that of LSU’s, estimated to be above $5 million over three to four years, according to On3's Pete Nakos on Tuesday.

The rumors surrounding this potential flip grew following an Instagram post from "The D-Zone" two weeks ago, which claimed Michigan was offering Underwood a $4 million NIL package. The Wolverines find themselves in a transitional phase at quarterback following the departure of J.J. McCarthy, who led the school to a national championship last season.

Given that Underwood hails from Belleville, just a short 30-minute drive from the University of Michigan, the Wolverines are leaving no stone unturned to keep the 6-foot-4, 214-pound local QB talent in-state.

The signal-caller is also having an outstanding senior season, recording 1,477 passing yards and 19 touchdowns for only one interception throughout seven games. He has also contributed in the running game, with 24 carries for 427 yards and three rushing touchdowns.

Michigan's aggressive recruitment strategy is indicative of the broader trends in college football, where NIL deals are becoming a game-changer in recruiting. Sources close to the situation indicate that the school is ramping up its NIL operation to ensure it has the resources to attract top talent like Underwood.

This represents the best-funded NIL effort the Wolverines have seen since the NIL era began in 2021.

Bryce Underwood's commitment is not expected to sway away by NIL deals

Bryce Underwood has already clarified that financial incentives are significant, but they are not the sole determining factor in his commitment decision. So, the Michigan NIL deal is barely likely to hinder his LSU pledge.

Even Bryce Underwood’s father was vocal about this in June, saying:

“We try to put the cash in the back of the whole situation because whatever his dreams are, we want him to live those out. The money is going to come when he’s just living his dreams. I don’t want to get it twisted, money is a huge deal. At the same time again, man, it’s about Bryce being able to turn his dreams into goals."

Besides that, LSU’s offensive strategy aligns more closely with Bryce Underwood's playing style. The Tigers have a history of developing quarterbacks who thrive in dynamic offensive systems. Next weekend, he will visit Baton Rouge for an official tour, where he will witness the matchup between the Tigers and Alabama.