The 2026 Quarterback Landscape for Michigan
As the Wolverines turn their gaze toward the 2026 campaign, the quality of opposing quarterbacks becomes a central theme in strategic planning.
The staff has assembled a tiered assessment, ordering the signal‑callers from the most forgiving to the most formidable, based on experience, skill set, and recent performance.
At the bottom of the list sits EJ Colson of UTEP, whose limited exposure to high‑level defenses makes him the easiest matchup on the schedule.
Iowa presents a contrast, with Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski projected as the likely starters; both bring modest passing résumés and a learning curve that Michigan could exploit.
Rutgers will field Dylan Lonergan, the presumptive starter, alongside AJ Surace; Lonergan’s dual‑threat profile adds a layer of complexity, though his inexperience still places him lower on the danger scale.
Western Michigan’s Broc Lowry offers a different challenge, blending mobility with a strong arm, capable of extending plays and keeping defensive coordinators on alert.
Michigan State’s Alessio Milivojevic showed marked improvement during the final four games of 2025, suggesting an upward trajectory that could tighten the competition.
The Minnesota prospect Drake Lindsey set a freshman yardage record in 2025, indicating a potent arm that could test Michigan’s secondary.
UCLA’s Nico Iamaleava, while posting a subpar 2025 season, retains the upside of a player who could refine his mechanics and become a serious threat.
Penn State’s Rocco Becht arrives as a proven signal caller within Matt Campbell’s system, bringing a track record of consistency that elevates his ranking.
Oklahoma’s John Mateer delivered a solid outing against Michigan in 2025, demonstrating poise and accuracy that could translate into a tougher test.
Indiana’s Josh Hoover stands out as one of the Big Ten’s most consistent performers, his reliability making him a top‑tier opponent.
Ohio State’s Julian Sayin seized the starting role after Will Howard’s departure, posting an excellent 2025 campaign that positions him among the conference’s elite.
The apex of the list belongs to Dante Moore of Oregon, widely regarded as the premier Big Ten quarterback and a potential first‑overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft, representing the most dangerous challenge on Michigan’s slate.