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via Imago
Credit: Imago
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/WhatsApp-Image-2024-05-30-at-3.31.41-PM.jpeg?width=600)
via Imago
Credit: Imago
The Super Bowl-winning quarterback for the Michigan Wolverines, Alex Orji, has a family origin from Africa. The successor to J.J. McCarthy, Alex Orji will be starting as the Wolverines’ quarterback in the upcoming season. Speaking of the Orji family, Alex’s two brothers, Alston and Anfernee Orji, are also football players. Anfernee plays as a linebacker for the New Orleans Saints, and Alston plays as a linebacker for Vanderbilt.
Alex will have the charge to defend Michigan’s title. In the 2023 season, he was the backup to McCarthy, where he scored 86 rushing yards and 1 touchdown in the season. In the following season, he didn’t attempt a single pass, but in the upcoming season, he is expected to start the game for the Wolverines.
Meet Alex Orji’s parents
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Alex Orji’s parents are Willy Orji and Mariam Orji. They immigrated to the United States from Nigeria. To seek higher education and opportunities, Alex’s father, Willy, moved to the USA in 1987, and his mother followed in 1996.
Alex has two elder brothers, Alston and Anfernee. The trio was famous at Rockwall High School for their on-field football prowess. After immigrating to the USA, the Orji family obtained their citizenship in 1989.
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USA Today via Reuters
Dec 4, 2021; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back Hassan Haskins (25) runs the ball while Iowa Hawkeyes linebacker Jack Campbell (31) defends in the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Now, Alex Orji, the youngest in the family, has a huge responsibility to lead the Wolverines’ offensive line. In the previous season, McCarthy delivered a promising performance under the leadership of Jim Harbaugh. However, this time things are different for Michigan in the absence of both McCarthy and Harbaugh.
Alex Orji leading Michigan’s offensive line
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In his junior year, Orji scored 1403 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, 926 rushing yards, and 15 rushing touchdowns. In his senior year, Orji rushed for 1,187 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 2,064 passing yards with 28 touchdowns. Adding to his accolades, Orji was rated a three-star recruit by 247Sports and a four-star recruit by ESPN. Now, under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Sherrone Moore, Orji will lead the Wolverines in the upcoming season.
Michigan’s fate will depend on Orji’s ability to connect with wide receiver Semaj Morgan. Additionally, running back Donovan Edwards’ contribution will be integral for the Wolverines. However, time will reveal how Orji adapts to this new role and defends the championship title. In the meantime, let us know your thoughts on Orji leading the Wolverines in the upcoming season.