TLDR: Jack Tuttle, the seasoned quarterback with a history of playing for Utah and Indiana, will make his bid for Michigan’s starting quarterback position this year. Originally joining Michigan with limited expectations due to the existing talent of J.J. McCarthy, Tuttle sees a new opportunity as McCarthy heads to the 2024 NFL draft. Tuttle, who came to Michigan as a mature veteran player, will be taking advantage of a medical redshirt extending his eligibility into a seventh college football season. His distinct familiarity with the program and an offense led by former coach Kirk Campbell could play in his favor. With limited reps in the previous season, Jack demonstrated his skill, having thrown 15 of 17 passes, amassing 130 yards and scoring a touchdown while also making gains on the ground. Competition for the QB position won’t be scarce as promising competitors like Jayden Denegal, dual-threat Alex Orji, and an anticipated newcomer, Jadyn Davis, add to the depth of talent. Nevertheless, with significant experience and skill, Tuttle might just have the edge needed to take lead the Wolverines.

The arrival of Jack Tuttle to the Michigan Wolverines was initially overshadowed by the presence of J.J. McCarthy, a talent which had already captured the starter role. Tuttle’s commitment in December 2022 was met with minimal attention, largely due to an already packed quarterback roster. Nevertheless, Tuttle’s history in the Big Ten as a five-year veteran provided Michigan with a reliable backup who was well-versed in the demands and rigors of major college football.

Circumstances have shifted as J.J. McCarthy opts for the 2024 NFL draft, changes that give Tuttle a clear path for the starting quarterback race. Program spokesman Dave Ablauf confirmed Tuttle’s medical redshirt approval, meaning he’ll return for a seventh college season, an unusual feat in itself. His initial move to Michigan seemed a forward-thinking strategy, setting up Tuttle to ascend from a support role to a key player this season.

Jack Tuttle has endured a long and diverse college journey. Rated as a four-star prospect and the No. 8 pro-style quarterback by 247Sports Composite in 2018, he started at Utah, redshirted, and then transferred to Indiana. The COVID-19 pandemic season in 2020 provided an extra opportunity; he stayed in Bloomington for another year in 2022 after a single game appearance for Indiana. His perseverance extends through varied experiences, offering Michigan a candidate with ample game-time wisdom.

Tuttle arrives at Michigan boasting a solid frame at 6-foot-4 and 210 pounds. While the previous season saw him playing a backup role and participating sparingly, he was efficient. Completing 15 out of 17 passes for 130 yards and adding a touchdown, alongside 35 rushing yards on just four attempts, Tuttle made his case as a credible contender.

Facing him for Michigan’s starting role are several talented athletes. Dual-threat Alex Orji, Jayden Denegal, and the promising rookie prospect, Jadyn Davis, all vie for the starting QB position. Tuttle, under the guidance of former Indiana coach Kirk Campbell, now Michigan’s offensive director, might capitalize on his experience and familiarity with the playbook. An intriguing battle for leadership lies ahead, and Tuttle’s seasoned hand could well be an asset for the Wolverines this season.