Alex Orji

Alex Orji's Biography

Alexander Orji is an extraordinary talent in the world of American football. Born on November 10, 2003, he has, within a relatively short time, built an illustrious career as a quarterback, glorifying the Michigan Wolverines with his performance. His claim to fame can be attributed to the national championship he won with Michigan in 2023. Although he was a backup at that time, he displayed notable brilliance in his game.

Orji spent his earlier years in Sachse, Texas, where he attended Sachse High School. During his junior and senior years, his sports prowess was noticeably outstanding. He completed 226 out of his 436 passes, traversing 3,467 yards and contributing 38 touchdowns. Additionally, he also rushed to cover an impressive 2,113 yards while marking his score with 39 touchdowns.

Orji’s promise was not unnoticed by various sports platforms. 247Sports gave him a three-star rating, while ESPN rated him as a four-star recruit and ranked him at #251 overall. Initially, he committed to Virginia Tech for his college football. Nevertheless, destiny took a turn, and Orji changed his loyalty from the Hokies to the Michigan Wolverines, a decision that has been fruitful in his career development.

In 2022, Orji enrolled himself at the University of Michigan. Even as a true freshman, he displayed considerable skill and potential. His statistics included six rushes covering 37 yards; and two touchdowns. Not to forget, he completed his only pass attempt for five yards. His debut professional game against Colorado State on September 3, 2022, was a memorable one as he scored his first career touchdown.

The following year, Orji served as a backup to J. J. McCarthy but played a pivotal role in earning Michigan’s national championship. His overall performance included 15 rushes covering 86 yards and a touchdown, and no pass attempts. His significant contribution was felt when Michigan won over their rival, Michigan State, and he carried the ball five times to cover 27 yards and a touchdown. In a victory game against Ohio State and in the national championship against the Washington Huskies, he exhibited his rushing capabilities.

2024 marked the onset of Orji’s junior season. His performance had already made him a favorite to replace McCarthy as Michigan’s starting quarterback. Despite the competition from Jack Tuttle, Davis Warren, and Jayden Denegal, Orji emerged on top. The first game against Fresno State, witnessed Orji not as a starting quarterback but as a backup to Davis Warren. But his performance, which involved making his first collegiate touchdown pass and rushing five times for 32 yards, made everyone notice his talent. Replacing Davis Warren in a game against Arkansas State following Warren’s third interception, Orji made his second touchdown, securing Michigan’s win.

Orji’s notable performance in the game against USC earned him the position of the starting quarterback for the start of Big Ten Conference play, making it his first collegiate start, announced by Sherrone Moore.

Orji comes from a family that has a connection to football. His two elder brothers, Anfernee and Alston, are also entrenched in the sport. Anfernee is a part of the New Orleans Saints, playing as a linebacker, while Alston has had a stint as a linebacker with Vanderbilt and Campbell.