For Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr, football really is the family business. It's such a business that the Michigan native and grandson of famed Wolverines head coach Lloyd Carr likely upset a few members of his family when he decided to play for the Fighting Irish. If there is any regret among the Carr clan, it's possible CJ's brother, Tommy could be the next storied member of the Ann Arbor program.
Tommy Carr was a bit of an under-radar-player when Michigan signed him in the 2026 class. He joined the Wolverines after being the No. 22 quarterback and No. 318 player in his cycle according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings. Originally committed to Miami of Ohio, he eventually flipped to the Wolverines and now he's impressing new head coach Kyle Whittingham.
In meeting with the media earlier this week, Whittingham told reporters that Tommy Carr is standing out and might even be leading in the race to back up starting signal caller Bryce Underwood.
Notre Dame football's CJ Carr has a brother making noise at Michigan and a family rivalry could be brewing
Whittingham said that not every QB is on campus yet but the brother of Notre Dame's Heisman contender is making his presence known. “Probably the one that stands out so far," the Wolverines coach said. "
"Tommy Carr is doing a nice job, I can tell you that. Nothing’s been set in stone, obviously, but just based on what we’ve seen to this point, Tommy has looked like he’s got a good skill set.”
Does that have members of the Carr family dreaming of a matchup between the two brothers in the near future? The only way it would happen is if Notre Dame and Michigan squared off in a bowl game, or preferably a College Football Playoff game. Of course, for even that to happen, Tommy would need to secure the starting job this year or next.
It seems unlikely there would be a Carr brothers showdown. Still, it can't be ruled out considering Tommy has already gone from few Power 4 offers to the Wolverines, to one spot away from starting in the Big House.
Even if they don't get the face each other, it's a safe bet that while Tommy will be watching CJ's career at Notre Dame closely, big brother will be returning the favor.