Michigan is gearing up for what could be a really exciting 2025 season. All eyes are on their new quarterback, Bryce Underwood.
This true freshman, who signed with Michigan’s 2025 recruiting class, is already making waves. It’s not just his potential on the field—he’s also projected to earn a hefty sum through NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals.
So, what’s the story with Underwood’s net worth and his NIL deals? Let’s dig in a bit and see how his journey to becoming a Wolverine is shaping up so far.
Bryce Underwood’s Projected Net Worth and NIL Valuation
Underwood’s exact net worth is still under wraps. But his NIL valuation gives us a pretty good idea of his market value.
On3Sports pegs the Michigan quarterback’s NIL valuation at a staggering $3 million. That’s a mix of something called roster value and NIL value.
Understanding Roster Value and NIL Value
Roster value mostly comes from what athletes get paid by schools and collectives just for playing. Think of it as similar to contracts and salaries in the pros.
NIL value, though, is all about what an athlete could make from licensing and sponsorships. This number gets shaped by how well they play, how much media attention they get, and their social media presence.
Usually, only the top athletes or those with a big social media following make serious money from brand deals compared to their roster value. It’s a tough market out there for most.
Underwood’s NIL Deals and Endorsements
Even though he’s just a freshman, Bryce Underwood has already landed some pretty impressive endorsement deals. In December 2024, he announced a partnership with Hollister right before signing with the Wolverines.
Then, in late August, Underwood showed up as part of the Beats Elite Class of 2025. He joined a group that includes other college football names like:
- Ryan Williams (Alabama)
- Caleb Downs (Ohio State)
- DJ Lagway (Florida)
- LaNorris Sellers (South Carolina)
He also inked a deal with Celsius energy drinks. In fact, he appeared in an ad with Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.
If Underwood delivers on the field, I’d bet there are more deals coming his way soon.
The Recruitment Journey to Michigan
Underwood’s decision to commit to Michigan was a huge win for the Wolverines. He was the No. 1 overall quarterback prospect in the 2025 class and, for a long time, was committed to LSU.
Then, after a secret visit to Ann Arbor in December, things changed. Underwood shadowed Michigan’s offensive coordinator, Moore, at practice, sat in on meetings, and got a real feel for the program.
Influential Factors in Underwood’s Decision
What made Underwood flip to Michigan? There were a few things, honestly.
His relationship with former Michigan quarterback Tom Brady definitely played a part. Plus, Michigan’s NIL collective, Champions Circle, was a big factor in sealing the deal.
Some pretty influential folks are part of that collective, like Michigan booster Nate Forbes, managing partner of The Forbes Company, and Jolin and Larry Ellison. Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, has a net worth of about $272.3 billion—that’s second only to one other person in the world, according to Forbes.
The Role of Dave Portnoy in Underwood’s Recruitment
Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports and a Michigan alum, got involved too. He confirmed he joined a call with Underwood’s family and pitched them on Michigan.
All these factors—plus a few intangibles—helped convince Underwood to stay in his home state and sign with the Wolverines. Can’t help but wonder what he’ll do next.
Looking Ahead: Underwood’s Future at Michigan
Bryce Underwood is the highest-rated quarterback ever to sign with Michigan. That’s saying something for a school with such a storied football history.
If he lives up to that five-star hype and actually delivers on the field, the NIL deals will probably come pouring in. This season feels like a make-or-break moment for not just his personal brand, but also Michigan’s shot at a Big Ten title and maybe, if things go right, a College Football Playoff run.
For more details about Bryce Underwood’s NIL earnings and net worth, check out the Sporting News.
As the season unfolds, people are going to be watching Underwood closely to see if he can actually live up to all this buzz. He’s got a solid support system, some big endorsements lined up, and honestly, Michigan fans are hoping he’s the real deal.
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