When you think of college football captains, you probably envision the high school phenom — the five-star recruit with offers from every powerhouse in the country.

That’s not Max Bredeson’s story. And maybe that’s why he’s become such an integral part of Michigan football.

As the Wolverines face a pivotal offseason, getting someone like Bredeson back for 2025 could be the difference between maintaining Michigan’s powerhouse status and taking a step back.

“He’s the ultimate competitor, the ultimate leader, everything you want in a captain, and a guy you want on your team,” head coach Sherrone Moore said of Bredeson on Monday ahead of Michigan’s ReliaQuest Bowl matchup with Alabama. “As physical as any player in college football, I would say. He’s everything you want from a leader on your team. He impacts our team not just on the field, but off the field in huge ways, making sure the locker room is aligned in every single way. I just can’t speak highly enough about that young man. Just excited for him and making his determination, whatever he does.”

It’s not just coach speak. Bredeson was also the Wolverines’ chosen recipient of the ReliaQuest Make It Possible Award — an honor that recognizes the teammate “who displays the attitude, energy, and effort necessary to help his team win without worrying about who gets the credit.”

Beyond leadership, Bredeson’s work ethic shines through underlying statistics. This season, he was Michigan’s eighth-highest graded offensive player (per PFF) and led the team with an impressive 72.7 run blocking grade. No, the fullback position hasn’t been flashy for Bredeson, but that’s exactly where the Florida native thrives. His name doesn’t light up the stat sheet — no rushing yards or touchdowns to brag about — but every big play Michigan makes? Chances are he is in the thick of it, paving the way for multiple 1,000-yard rushers to shine. He’s the unsung hero behind the highlight reel moments.

As Michigan gears up for its showdown with Alabama, Bredeson’s future looms large. Is this his final game as a Wolverine? When asked, he gave the classic team-first response: “Just all focus is on Alabama right now.”

But his love for Michigan is undeniable. Reflecting on teammates opting out of the bowl game, Bredeson was supportive but firm.

“Everyone’s got their own decisions that they have to make,” he said. “I’m happy with everyone’s decisions. I’ve got to do what’s best for them. This is my dream to be here. I love Michigan more than anything. If I told myself when I was a kid that I wouldn’t play in the last game, it would be insane.”

It’s that passion and commitment that make Bredeson so valuable to this program. In college football, it’s the glue guys — the unsung heroes — who elevate a team from great to elite. Bredeson is that guy for Michigan. If he returns in 2025, his leadership, continuity and relentless run blocking could be the key to getting Michigan back into the national championship conversation.

Whether or not he stays, Bredeson’s legacy in Ann Arbor is secure. He’s the embodiment of Michigan football — toughness, selflessness, and an unyielding commitment to the team. For fans, the thought of this being his last game is bittersweet. But if he does return, 2025 could be a truly special year for Michigan football.