ESPN SHOCKER: Oklahoma Sooners QB John Mateer 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 Sooners Over Bigger Payday—A Bold Move in Today’s Chaotic NIL Landscape!
In a headline-grabbing move that defies the norms of college football’s modern era, Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer has reportedly rejected a $4.5 million NIL offer from the University of Georgia. The Bulldogs, gearing up for life after star quarterback Carson Beck, made an aggressive push to bring Mateer to Athens as their next leader under center. But Mateer, despite already securing $2.1 million in NIL deals last December, chose to stay true to Oklahoma, sparking a wave of admiration across the sport.
Mateer, who transferred to Oklahoma after a promising start to his college career, emerged as a strong and reliable leader for the Sooners in 2024. Known for his dual-threat capabilities and sharp football IQ, Mateer was viewed by many as a rising star. Georgia’s interest was no surprise—his playing style and leadership profile made him a prime candidate to guide a team with national title aspirations. Yet, Mateer’s decision to stay put sends a resounding message about the value of loyalty and legacy.
“I didn’t come to Oklahoma just to pass through—I came to make an impact,” Mateer reportedly told his teammates. “This team, this staff, and this university mean something to me. No amount of money can replace that.” In a time when high-dollar offers are pulling top talent across the country, Mateer’s commitment to the Sooners is a reminder that not every decision comes down to the biggest check.
The University of Georgia, under head coach Kirby Smart, has become a master of reloading talent year after year. With Carson Beck likely headed to the NFL following the 2025 season, landing a seasoned and talented quarterback was a top priority. Mateer was at the top of their list, and the NIL package reportedly included national marketing deals, high-end endorsements, and a fast track to playoff contention. That Mateer turned it all down speaks volumes about his belief in the program he currently leads.
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables praised Mateer for his character and decision-making, calling it a moment that will define the team’s identity moving forward. “John is everything you want in a quarterback—tough, smart, selfless,” Venables said in a statement. “This decision shows the kind of foundation we’re building here. He believes in Oklahoma, and we believe in him. This is about more than football—it’s about building something bigger than yourself.”
