Michigan Football Unveils Spring Leadership Team

New coach Kyle Whittingham shapes team culture with captains and council.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 8:23am

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Michigan Football has announced its spring captains and player-voted leadership council under new head coach Kyle Whittingham, signaling a shift in team culture and accountability as the program looks to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season.

Why it matters

Whittingham is known for building strong team cultures at Utah, and the leadership structure he is implementing at Michigan is seen as a key part of his plan to quickly turn the Wolverines around. The captains and council will play a central role in setting the tone and expectations for the team.

The details

The spring captains named are quarterback Bryce Underwood, defensive lineman Kris Jenkins, and linebacker Ethan Green. Whittingham has also established a 12-member player-voted leadership council to provide additional guidance and feedback. This council includes both veteran players and rising stars across the offense, defense, and special teams.

  • The spring captains and leadership council were announced this week.

The players

Kyle Whittingham

The new head football coach at the University of Michigan, known for building strong team cultures during his tenure at the University of Utah.

Bryce Underwood

Michigan's starting quarterback and one of the spring team captains.

Kris Jenkins

Michigan defensive lineman and one of the spring team captains.

Ethan Green

Michigan linebacker and one of the spring team captains.

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What they’re saying

“Accountability and leadership are two of the core pillars of our program, and I'm excited to see these players step up and take ownership of the team.”

— Kyle Whittingham, Head Football Coach

What’s next

The newly formed leadership group will play a key role in guiding the team through spring practice and setting the tone for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Whittingham's emphasis on building a strong team culture through a defined leadership structure signals his intent to quickly establish his vision and standards for the Michigan football program.