Michigan’s quarterback room continues to evolve as both Alex Orji and Jayden Denegal have entered the transfer portal following an up-and-down 2024 season.
Orji, who started three games this year, finished his Michigan career with mixed results. The dual-threat quarterback completed 52.3% of his passes for 148 yards and three touchdowns while adding 260 rushing yards. Despite going 2-1 as a starter, he ultimately lost the job back to Davis Warren.
Meanwhile, Denegal is heading home to Southern California, committing to San Diego State. The former three-star prospect, who Michigan landed after missing on five-star Dante Moore in 2022, saw limited action in Ann Arbor. His only meaningful stats came in 2023, going 4-for-5 for 50 yards and a touchdown.
The departures come as little surprise following Michigan’s signing of No. 1 overall recruit Bryce Underwood, who flipped from LSU last month. Both Orji and Denegal will have two years of eligibility remaining at their next stops.
For Denegal, the move to San Diego State brings him closer to his Apple Valley hometown north of Los Angeles. Orji, meanwhile, should draw significant interest as a talented dual-threat option with starting experience wherever he signs.
The quarterbacks’ exodus marks the end of Michigan’s 2022 QB class. With Underwood’s arrival signaling a new era in Ann Arbor, both Orji and Denegal will look to find the consistent playing time that eluded them with the Wolverines.
Nick Wright is the lead publisher and writer for All Lakers, Patriot Country, and Wolverine Digest on Athlon Sports. He has worked in the sports publishing industry for over seven years. Throughout his career he’s done everything from writing, editing, and publisher training to content strategy and technical account management for over 150 sports brands.
Nick Wright is the lead publisher and writer for All Lakers, Patriot Country, and Wolverine Digest on Athlon Sports. He has worked in the sports publishing industry for over seven years. Throughout his career he’s done everything from writing, editing, and publisher training to content strategy and technical account management for over 150 sports brands.
