Bryce Underwood has yet to throw a pass in college, but he’s already the subject of one of the more bizarre offseason conversations in college football. The nation’s top-ranked recruit and Michigan’s presumed quarterback of the future showed up to spring practice with a noticeable midsection, and the photo in question quickly became a topic of debate.
Is the highly-touted freshman quarterback out of shape? Or is it all just part of the plan? Either way, the image of Underwood, first shared by former Wolverines offensive lineman Taylor Lewan on Instagram, sparked immediate chatter across college football circles.
Critics, particularly those wearing scarlet and gray, took the opportunity to question Underwood’s conditioning, poking fun at what they deemed a classic case of the “freshman 15.”
Conditioning Concerns Or Strategic Bulk?
Despite the photo, Michigan shows no concern about its five-star quarterback. With four months before the season, head coach Sherrone Moore hasn’t announced a starter, but many expect Underwood to lead the offense soon. For now, Moore keeps things open, with former Fresno State quarterback Mikey Keene still in the mix following his return from a knee injury.
While the visual of Underwood’s stomach raised eyebrows, his official measurements paint a different picture. Michigan lists him at 6-foot-4, 208 pounds on the spring roster, but those who have seen him in person suggest he’s closer to 6-foot-5 and 215. In fact, during bowl practices in December, Underwood reportedly made returning quarterback Alex Orji look undersized by comparison.
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Lewan, who played nearly a decade in the NFL, defended Underwood after the photo stirred online backlash. “If you saw what I saw at practice the other day, you’d be terrified to see this man lining up against your team,” Lewan posted.
The reality is simple: Michigan likely put Underwood on a strategic weight gain plan when he arrived in Ann Arbor. Coaches needed him to add muscle, not drop pounds. As fall camp approaches, the next phase of his development will shift toward maintenance.
For now, Wolverines fans should take the noise for what it is: noise. Underwood remains a 17-year-old with a cannon for an arm, a calm demeanor, and enough talent to take over college football. He also just gave back to his high school security guard, using some of his NIL money- gut or no gut, that speaks volumes.
