ESPN SHOCKER: Ohio Stte Buckeyes QB Julian Sayin Stuns College Football World—Declines $4.5M NIL Deal from Georgia to Succeed Carson Beck! Already Secured $2.1M in December, But Chooses Loyalty to the Ohio Over Bigger Payday—A Bold Move in Today’s Chaotic NIL Landscape!
In a jaw-dropping development that’s making headlines across the college football world, Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin has reportedly declined a massive $4.5 million NIL offer from the University of Georgia. The Bulldogs, preparing for life after Carson Beck, were aggressively pursuing Sayin as their top target to take the reins in Athens. But in a move that defies the prevailing winds of the NIL era, Sayin has chosen loyalty to the Buckeyes over a bigger paycheck.
Sayin, a former five-star recruit and one of the top quarterback prospects in the country, originally committed to Alabama before transferring to Ohio State, where he’s been on a fast track to stardom. After locking in $2.1 million in NIL deals in December, Sayin quickly became the face of the Buckeyes’ future. His decision to remain in Columbus speaks volumes not just about his belief in the program, but also his character and long-term vision.
“Ohio State is home now,” Sayin reportedly told coaches during internal meetings. “This team, this staff, and this fanbase have embraced me—and I want to win with them.” In an era where loyalty often takes a backseat to opportunity, Sayin’s choice is being celebrated as a rare and refreshing move. He could’ve followed the money and joined a national title contender, but instead, he doubled down on building something lasting in Columbus.
Georgia’s interest in Sayin was no surprise. With Beck expected to declare for the NFL Draft after the 2025 season, head coach Kirby Smart saw Sayin as an ideal fit for the Bulldogs’ system—polished, poised, and proven. The NIL offer included extensive branding, endorsements, and exposure that would rival that of an NFL rookie. That Sayin said “no” despite all of that shows a depth of commitment rarely seen in today’s transfer-driven landscape.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day expressed admiration for Sayin’s leadership and decision-making. “Julian is wise beyond his years. He’s talented, no question—but more importantly, he understands what it means to lead,” Day said in a statement. “We talk a lot about building a culture and winning the right way. Julian embodies that. He’s not just here for the moment—he’s here for the mission.”
