As the Wolverines gear up for fall camp, Alex Orji is widely considered the front-runner for the starting quarterback position at Michigan. However, head coach Sherrone Moore didn’t dismiss Jack Tuttle as a contender during Big Ten Media Days. The competition for the starting job began after J.J. McCarthy declared for the 2024 NFL Draft, becoming a central topic around the reigning national champions.
Redshirt sophomore Alex Orji has emerged as the likely favorite to secure the position, thanks to his unique skill set, Jack Tuttle’s absence from spring practice due to injury, and Orji’s performance in Michigan’s spring game. While redshirt junior Davis Warren also played in the spring game, Tuttle, with five career starts at Indiana and appearances in 21 games, is the most experienced quarterback in Michigan’s lineup. At Big Ten Media Days, Moore praised Tuttle, highlighting his accuracy, strong throws, and overall good form.
Despite not having established himself as a starter in his six years of college football, Tuttle has played behind notable quarterbacks like Michael Penix Jr. and J.J. McCarthy. Moore acknowledged Tuttle’s excitement to compete for the starting role.
Replacing McCarthy presents a significant challenge for Michigan. Though McCarthy had modest passing stats last season, his accuracy, mobility, and leadership qualities made him an ideal fit for the Wolverines. Moore emphasized McCarthy’s calm demeanor under pressure and his ability to make or facilitate big plays as key traits he’d like to see in Michigan’s next starter.
Heading into fall camp, Orji remains the presumed leader in the quarterback competition, with Tuttle and Warren also in contention, while redshirt sophomore Jayden Denegal and true freshman Jadyn Davis trail behind. Moore did not specify a timeline for naming the starting quarterback, stating that the decision will be based on which player is best suited to help the team win. He praised the coaching staff, particularly Kirk Campbell, for their role in guiding the quarterbacks and making the best decision for the team.
Moore highlighted the importance of having a quarterback who is a playmaker, makes the right decisions, protects the football, and prioritizes the team’s success. The coaching staff will look for these attributes as they continue to evaluate the players in the lead-up to the season.
