Michigan QB Bryce Underwood gifts high school security guard a new car

While NIL can occasionally create controversy, it can also create fantastic moments. On April 6, Michigan freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood teamed up with his local dealership, Feldman Chevrolet, to surprise his former high school’s security guard, Mych Darty, with a new car.

Underwood and Darty were close during the five-star QB’s time at Belleville High School. Despite being the most popular person on campus, Underwood never failed to give his attention to those around him, including Darty.

“The difference he made for the athletes here honestly,” Underwood said when asked why he chose to gift Darty the car. “Whenever we needed somebody to lean on, he was there. Whenever we needed to get out of class for a mental break or anything like that, he was there.

“The genuineness of Mych. He really cares and you can tell. He shows up for anybody and everybody, no matter what they did, no matter who they are.”

Know your roots and who you’re rooting for pic.twitter.com/UeHsxTq49L

— Bryce Jay Underwood (@BryceUnderwoo16) April 17, 2025

Underwood was the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2025 recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. While Michigan hasn’t named its QB1 for next season yet, Underwood is expected to be the frontrunner for the starting spot.

Evidently, Underwood hasn’t allowed his immense success on the football field to change his kind demeanor off it. Before Underwood had even gifted him the car, Darty raved about the 17-year old’s character.

“He’s always looking to help someone out,” Darty said. “He’s just a great person, in general. He was raised right. He does things the right way in every aspect of life.”

Underwood’s positive personality has been just as influential to his success on the gridiron as his tight spiral. Earlier this month, Michigan offensive pass game coordinator Ron Bellamy praised Underwood for his performances during spring practice.

“If there’s, let’s say, a miscommunication or something, or he thought a receiver is gonna do this, he walks over and kinda says how he saw it. He’ll come over with a little pep,” Bellamy said. “He’s always high praise, high encouragement.

“For a 17-year-old kid, that’s huge. I’ve been around a long time, played with some great ones here at Michigan as a player and as a coach, and to see those leadership qualities from a 17-year-old kid is quite impressive.”

Michigan fans won’t have to wait long to see Underwood’s leadership qualities on full display. On Aug. 30, Bryce Underwood will make his collegiate debut against New Mexico.