The NIL brought about a massive change in college sports. However, for some, money takes a backseat to personal aspirations, as Bryce Underwood, considered one of the best prospects in the NCAA, just demonstrated.
Navigating the multi-million dollar offers pouring in can be complicated for top athletes/students. Today, more than ever, sponsors are on the hunt for the best talent to associate with their brands, and universities are open to channeling those deals in search of attracting top prospects.
That’s the case with Underwood, who a few months ago committed to play for LSU. However, recent reports claim that Michigan prepared a $10 million NIL package for the young quarterback to make the flip and play for the Wolverines. The player’s response? It’s still a matter of debate.
It is not yet known if Michigan has already made its proposal to Underwood. Analysts speculate that it has already and even believe that the player has already sent his response, posting a photo of Phillip Wright on his Instagram Stories.
Although the reason for the post is still unclear, Wright is one of the top prospects in the NCAA Class of 2025, who was committed to Michigan, but then flipped to LSU.
The image confused the press. Some think that Underwood is trying to say that if Wright traded the Wolverines for the Tigershe would not trade LSU for Michigan. Others believe that the photo indicates that the player is open to change. The truth, only Bryce himself knows.
Whether the photo in question was a subliminal message, Underwood has repeatedly said he’s committed to the school that offers him the best chance to be the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft.
In the midst of rebuilding following the departures of head coach Jim Harbaugh and quarterback J.J. McCarthy, Michigan is 5-5 overall (3-4 Big Ten). Right now, the Wolverines don’t offer Underwood what he’s looking for, even if the young signal-caller is exactly what the Wolverines need.
