A college football analyst has been picking up positive signals regarding Michigan football quarterback Alex Orji.
One of the key uncertainties surrounding Michigan football as they head into the 2024 season is the quarterback position. With five contenders vying for the starting role, the competition promises to be one of the most compelling quarterback battles in college football.
Among the quarterbacks in contention is Alex Orji, a former three-star recruit ranked No. 493 overall in the 2022 class according to the 247 Sports composite rankings. Orji saw some playing time last season, primarily as a rusher.
However, according to insights shared by Clint Brewster of 247 Sports, Orji is not merely a one-dimensional player, at least as indicated by sources close to the Michigan football program.
Brewster shared on X that he received information from someone at Michigan indicating that Orji “is expected to resemble Jalen Milroe but with a more innate passing ability.”
If Alex Orji proves to be proficient in passing, it could spell trouble for opponents.
If Alex Orji can demonstrate proficiency in passing, then Michigan football might not need to seek a quarterback from the transfer portal. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 226 pounds, Orji possesses exceptional athletic ability.
Over two seasons as a backup, Orji has rushed 23 times for 123 yards and two touchdowns. Notably, he had a 13-yard rush in the national title game, a 20-yard run against Ohio State, and a 16-yard pickup against Michigan State.
While Orji didn’t attempt any passes last season, if he can also excel as a passer, he would hold significant potential as Michigan’s starter.
With a strong offensive line and Orji complemented by Donovan Edwards and Kalel Mullings in the zone-read game (J.J. McCarthy’s limited running threat due to health reasons), the offense could pose serious challenges for opposing defenses.
Jayden Denegal, a fellow 2022 QB signee, along with Davis Warren, Jack Tuttle, and incoming freshman top-100 recruit Jadyn Davis, have all received commendation. Each of them has their unique strengths, but if Orji can emerge as a genuine dual-threat, he will likely be difficult to surpass for the starting role.
