Smigiel’s progress is notable: he has been rehabbing well, did some throwing before the spring game, and remains on track to rejoin practice as a backup contender for the 2026 season. His return would alter the team’s offensive calculus by providing a reliable safety net behind Underwood, allowing the coaching staff to prioritize Underwood’s development without urgent depth concerns.
Whittingham continues to back Bryce Underwood, acknowledging the freshman’s tough first season while stressing that improvement is possible with more support and a dedicated offseason focus. The update also highlights the ongoing quarterback competition in fall camp, with Smigiel, Tommy Carr, Colin Hurley, and Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi as potential challengers for the QB2 spot, should Smigiel return to full strength.
