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Former Michigan QB Devin Gardner Compares Bryce Underwood to Lamar Jackson, Kyler Murray & Patrick Mahomes

Former Michigan QB Draws Parallels Between Top Recruit Bryce Underwood and NFL Elite

In the ever-competitive world of college football recruiting, few prospects generate as much buzz as Bryce Underwood, the five-star quarterback from Belleville High School in Michigan. Widely regarded as one of the top talents in the 2025 class, Underwood has been a focal point for major programs across the nation. His combination of arm strength, mobility, and poise under pressure has drawn comparisons to some of the NFL's most dynamic playmakers. Recently, a former Michigan Wolverines quarterback weighed in on Underwood's potential, likening him to current NFL stars and highlighting why he could be a game-changer at the collegiate level.

Devin Gardner, who quarterbacked for Michigan from 2010 to 2014, shared his insights during a discussion on Underwood's abilities. Gardner, now an analyst and commentator, has kept a close eye on high school talents from his home state, especially those with the potential to follow in the footsteps of Michigan legends. Underwood, a native of Belleville, has long been on the radar of the Wolverines, though his recruitment path has taken intriguing turns. Committed to LSU since early in his high school career, Underwood's decision has not deterred speculation about a possible flip, particularly given Michigan's need for a quarterback of his caliber in the post-J.J. McCarthy era.

Gardner's comparison centers on Underwood's unique skill set, which he believes mirrors that of several established NFL quarterbacks. Chief among them is Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens' electrifying signal-caller known for his dual-threat capabilities. Gardner points out that, like Jackson, Underwood possesses exceptional speed and elusiveness, allowing him to extend plays and turn potential losses into big gains. At 6-foot-3 and around 210 pounds, Underwood has the frame to withstand the physicality of college football while maintaining the agility that makes him a nightmare for defenses. Gardner recalls watching Underwood's high school tape, noting how he effortlessly evades rushers, much like Jackson did during his Heisman-winning season at Louisville.

But the parallels don't stop there. Gardner also draws lines to other NFL standouts, such as Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals. Murray, another undersized but incredibly athletic quarterback, shares Underwood's quick release and ability to improvise. Underwood's arm talent, capable of delivering precise throws on the run or from awkward platforms, echoes Murray's style, which has kept him a perennial threat despite questions about his durability. Gardner emphasizes that Underwood's decision-making in the pocket—knowing when to tuck and run versus when to stand tall and deliver—sets him apart from many recruits who rely solely on athleticism. This cerebral aspect, combined with his physical gifts, could make him a transformative force wherever he lands.

Expanding on this, Gardner touches on Underwood's high school dominance, which has solidified his status as the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2025 class according to multiple scouting services. At Belleville, Underwood has led his team to multiple state championships, showcasing a blend of passing accuracy and rushing prowess. In one memorable game, he accounted for over 400 total yards, throwing for three touchdowns and rushing for two more, all while facing heavy pressure from a stacked defensive line. Such performances remind Gardner of his own playing days at Michigan, where he navigated the Big Ten's rugged defenses. However, Gardner believes Underwood is ahead of where he was at a similar age, particularly in terms of pocket presence and field vision.

The comparison to NFL stars isn't just hyperbole; it's rooted in measurable traits. Underwood's 40-yard dash times hover in the low 4.5-second range, putting him in elite company for quarterback prospects. His ability to throw deep balls with touch and accuracy—often exceeding 60 yards in the air—draws inevitable nods to Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs' superstar. Gardner notes that while Mahomes revolutionized the position with his no-look passes and sidearm throws, Underwood already exhibits a similar creativity. "It's not just about the arm; it's about the imagination," Gardner said, highlighting how Underwood manipulates defenses with his eyes and pump fakes, much like Mahomes does at the professional level.

This praise comes at a pivotal time for Underwood's recruitment. Michigan, under head coach Sherrone Moore, has been aggressive in pursuing in-state talent, especially after losing McCarthy to the NFL Draft. The Wolverines' quarterback room, featuring players like Alex Orji and Davis Warren, lacks the blue-chip pedigree that Underwood brings. Gardner, a proud Michigan alum, doesn't hide his bias, suggesting that Underwood could thrive in Ann Arbor's pro-style offense, which emphasizes both passing and designed runs. He envisions Underwood stepping in as a freshman and immediately contending for playing time, potentially leading Michigan back to the College Football Playoff.

Yet, LSU remains the frontrunner, with Underwood's commitment holding firm amid visits and overtures from other programs. The Tigers, coached by Brian Kelly, have built a reputation for developing quarterbacks, as evidenced by Jayden Daniels' Heisman Trophy win and subsequent first-round draft status. Gardner acknowledges this, comparing Underwood's potential fit at LSU to Daniels', who also blended elite arm strength with scrambling ability. "Wherever he goes, he's going to shine," Gardner opined, but he couldn't resist adding that staying home in Michigan would allow Underwood to build a legacy akin to Tom Brady or even Gardner himself, who threw for over 6,000 yards during his Wolverines tenure.

Beyond the on-field comparisons, Gardner delves into Underwood's intangibles, which he believes align with those of NFL greats. Leadership is a key theme; Underwood has been a vocal presence on his high school team, rallying teammates during tough moments. This mirrors the poise of quarterbacks like Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys, who overcame early career setbacks through mental toughness. Gardner shares anecdotes from scouting events where Underwood demonstrated maturity beyond his years, handling media scrutiny and high expectations with grace. In an era where NIL deals and transfer portals add layers of complexity to recruiting, Underwood's focus on development over immediate gratification stands out.

Critics might argue that comparing a high schooler to NFL stars is premature, but Gardner counters by pointing to historical precedents. Players like Trevor Lawrence and Justin Fields were similarly hyped in high school and lived up to the billing in college. Underwood's participation in elite camps, such as the Elite 11 Finals, has only bolstered his resume, where he outshone peers with his consistency and arm velocity. Gardner recalls his own experiences at similar events, noting how they served as proving grounds. For Underwood, these showcases have confirmed his status as a generational talent.

As the 2025 signing period approaches, the buzz around Underwood intensifies. Programs like Alabama, Ohio State, and Oregon have shown interest, but the battle seems to be between LSU and Michigan. Gardner's endorsement adds fuel to the fire, painting Underwood not just as a recruit, but as a future star who could redefine the quarterback position. If he emulates the NFL players he's compared to—Jackson's elusiveness, Murray's improvisation, Mahomes' creativity—Underwood could very well become the next big thing in college football.

In wrapping up his thoughts, Gardner reflects on the broader implications for Michigan football. Losing a talent like Underwood to an out-of-state program would be a blow, especially given the Wolverines' rich history of homegrown quarterbacks. Yet, regardless of his destination, Gardner is confident that Underwood's blend of skills will propel him to stardom. "He's got that 'it' factor," Gardner concludes. "The kind that turns good teams into champions and makes fans dream of Super Bowls down the line."

This analysis from a former player turned observer underscores the high stakes of modern recruiting. Bryce Underwood isn't just a prospect; he's a symbol of the evolving quarterback archetype, one that blends traditional passing with modern athleticism. As comparisons to NFL elites continue to swirl, the football world waits to see where this Michigan phenom will take his talents—and how he'll live up to the lofty expectations. (Word count: 1,128)

Read the Full Sporting News Article at:
[ https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/ncaa-football/news/former-michigan-qb-compares-bryce-underwood-current-nfl-stars/7f9ec1ec6d4d2ea6433429eb ]