WATCH: $2.2 million NIL-valued QB Bryce Underwood joins Sherron Moore's Michigan Wolverines for practice ahead of bowl game

On Friday, Bryce Underwood, the nation’s top-ranked quarterback recruit, joined the Michigan Wolverines for bowl practice. Known for his pinpoint accuracy and elite athleticism, Underwood impressed during drills, connecting seamlessly with receivers on deep throws and showcasing refined footwork.

The Wolverines secured a historic commitment from Underwood, marking their first No. 1 overall recruit since Rashan Gary in 2016 and their first five-star quarterback since J.J. McCarthy, who guided Michigan to a national title in 2023. Underwood's decision to flip from LSU was influenced by a groundbreaking NIL deal valued at up to $12 million over four years.

His current NIL value sits at $2.2 million as per On3.

In a video shared on X on Monday, Underwood explained his commitment, highlighting his long-term vision:

“It is what it is. 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.”

Michigan’s aggressive offseason strategy includes transfer additions like offensive lineman Brady Norton (Cal Poly), wide receiver Donaven McCulley (Indiana), defensive tackle Damon Payne (Alabama) and defensive backs Tevis and TJ Metcalf (Arkansas).

Underwood’s path to becoming the Wolverines’ starter appears imminent. Coach Sherrone Moore has not explicitly confirmed plans. Still, changes like the departure of offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell and reserve quarterbacks Alex Orji and Jayden Denegal entering the transfer portal suggest a clear focus on Underwood as the centerpiece of Michigan’s offense starting in 2025.

Bryce Underwood’s remarkable journey to Michigan, QB1 for the future

Though Bryce Underwood can join Michigan’s bowl practices, NCAA rules prevent him from playing. Still, these sessions offer valuable early reps for the highly-touted quarterback, who is expected to compete for the starting role in 2025.

Coach Sherrone Moore, via "Detroit Free Press," described his ideal quarterback.

“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," he said. "That’s gonna be the No. 1 piece.”

Underwood's stellar high school career at Belleville High School under coaches Dejuan Rogers and Calvin Norman cemented his reputation. A four-year starter, he led the Tigers to a 50-4 record, two state championships (2021, 2022) and an impressive 38-game winning streak.

His senior season saw him pass for 2,509 yards and 32 touchdowns with just six interceptions, achieving a 71.8% completion rate and rushing for six more scores.

Across his career, Underwood accumulated 12,919 all-purpose yards, 11,488 through the air and 179 total touchdowns. Highlights include a 2023 junior season with 3,329 passing yards, 44 touchdowns and only three interceptions.