Jim Harbaugh gives post-surgery update on Cade McNamara, says he's likely out for the year

It hasn’t been the season that Cade McNamara would have expected after leading Michigan to the College Football Playoff just one year ago, and now it’s over following successful surgery on his leg.

The former Wolverines starter was benched in favor for JJ McCarthy, who is now starring in his role as their QB1. He hadn’t played since Sept. 17 after suffering a leg injury, but head coach Jim Harbaugh did not believe the injury would become season-ending at the time.

It turns out that wasn’t the case, and the Michigan headman gave the latest on McNamara’s status following his surgery last week.

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“He underwent the surgery, and seems that it’s successful and we’re supporting him in all rehab from here,” Harbaugh said. “But very happy there was a successful surgery.”

The reporter followed up by asking Harbaugh if McNamara was out for the season. “Yeah,” Harbaugh replied.

Last season, McNamara started all 14 games for the Wolverines and finished the year with 2,576 yards, 15 touchdowns and 6 interceptions. Leading the team to a 12-2 overall record, he led Michigan to its first Big Ten Championship since 2004 before earning a spot in the CFP, the first in school history.

McNamara was the Week 1 starter against Colorado State before handing the reigns over to McCarthy ever since. He went on to throw for 180 yards, a touchdown and one interception on the year while also appearing in games against UConn and Hawaii

The good news for McNamara – he still has one season of eligibility left after this season. With McCarthy’s underclassman status, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the former starter enter the transfer portal when the season comes to a close.

That remains to be seen, but until then McNamara will continue to be forced to cheer his teammates on from the sidelines as his team continues its path toward an undefeated regular season and a potential CFP berth.