Michigan freshman quarterback Tommy Carr is still uncertain about how much playing time he will receive in his debut college season, but his early performances have already drawn attention during spring practices. Sophomore Bryce Underwood is expected to remain the clear starting quarterback for 2026, yet Carr has taken advantage of a thin quarterback room to showcase his ability as an early enrollee.
Carr, a three-star recruit from Saline High School, joined Michigan in January and quickly adjusted to the college level. His most notable opportunity came during the annual Maize vs. Blue spring scrimmage, where he earned the most snaps among Michigan’s available quarterbacks. He completed 21 of 30 passes for 147 yards while also rushing for 59 yards, using his mobility to extend plays and pick up first downs. His ability to escape pressure and keep plays alive stood out throughout the scrimmage.
Carr Impresses Coaches With Pocket Presence Growth Confidence And Quarterback Development At Michigan
Head coach Kyle Whittingham praised Carr’s development, noting his pocket awareness, movement, and confidence under pressure. While confirming that Underwood remains the starter, he emphasized that Carr has made strong progress for a player still early in his college career. Whittingham highlighted Carr’s ability to keep his eyes downfield while on the move and described him as a quarterback with traits that can translate well at a high level.
Carr’s journey to Michigan was not straightforward. He was lightly recruited out of high school due to limited starting experience, having only two years as a varsity starter at Saline. He initially committed to Miami (Ohio) in early 2025, but a breakout senior season elevated his recruitment and led Michigan to extend an offer in November. He committed shortly before national signing day, joining a program with deep family ties.
Michigan’s quarterback room has also been in transition, which has created more opportunities for young players this spring. One transfer quarterback, Colin Hurley, left the program, while another, Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi, has yet to arrive. As a result, Carr, Underwood, and redshirt freshman Chase Herbstreit have all taken on increased practice reps during the 15-session spring period.
Carr has focused heavily on improving his decision-making, accuracy, and ability to read defenses more quickly. He explained that much of his development has come from learning how to process coverage looks faster and refine his passing consistency. Coaches have consistently noted his work ethic and steady improvement throughout spring workouts.
Despite being lightly recruited early in his career, Carr has developed strong confidence in his abilities. He stated that he has always believed in his talent and has used that belief as motivation throughout his development. That confidence has been reflected in his steady progress and growing trust from Michigan’s coaching staff.
Carr Impresses Coaches With Work Ethic Family Legacy And Michigan Quarterback Potential
Whittingham described Carr as a highly focused and football-obsessed player who brings leadership qualities and natural poise to the position. He emphasized Carr’s dedication to improving every aspect of his game and his willingness to put in extra work to refine his skills.
Carr also carries a strong personal connection to Michigan football. His grandfather Lloyd Carr served as head coach for 13 seasons and led the program to a national championship in 1997. Another grandfather, Tom Curtis, was a two-time All-American safety for the Wolverines in the 1960s. His parents also attended Michigan, and his father played quarterback for the program.
He expressed pride in continuing that family tradition, noting how meaningful it is to see his family’s legacy represented within the program facilities. Carr hopes to eventually add his own accomplishments to that history.
While Bryce Underwood remains firmly positioned as Michigan’s starter, Carr’s spring performance suggests he could develop into an important piece of the program’s future depth at quarterback.
