ESPN SHOCKER: Texas Tech QB, Behren Morton 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 Texas Tech Over Bigger Payday—A Bold Move in Today’s Chaotic NIL Landscape!
In an era of college football increasingly dominated by NIL money, Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton has flipped the script in a stunning display of loyalty and conviction. According to multiple sources confirmed by ESPN, Morton turned down a staggering $4.5 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal from the University of Georgia, where he was offered the opportunity to succeed current Bulldogs star Carson Beck. Despite the allure of one of college football’s most powerful programs and a life-changing financial offer, Morton chose to remain in Lubbock.
Morton, who already secured $2.1 million in NIL deals in December, reportedly made the decision after weeks of deliberation. The junior quarterback, a former four-star recruit, is seen as the centerpiece of Texas Tech’s future. While many assumed he might make a leap to a College Football Playoff contender, Morton’s decision sends a strong message: culture, continuity, and commitment still hold weight in the modern college game.
“Behren’s decision reflects the kind of person and competitor he is,” said Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire in a statement. “He believes in what we’re building here, and he wants to be the one to lead this program to new heights. You can’t put a price tag on that kind of leadership.”
Georgia’s interest in Morton highlights the growing trend of elite programs using NIL leverage to reload talent. With Carson Beck expected to enter the NFL Draft after the 2025 season, Georgia saw Morton as a plug-and-play star who could keep the Bulldogs in title contention. Morton’s experience, arm talent, and leadership made him a coveted target in the portal—even more so after an impressive 2024 campaign in which he threw for over 3,000 yards and 27 touchdowns.
Morton’s decision is already being praised by traditionalists and former players who have voiced concerns about the sport’s direction. College football, once deeply rooted in loyalty and regional identity, has faced criticism for becoming overly transactional in the NIL era. Morton’s loyalty to the Red Raiders offers a rare—and refreshing—counter-narrative. “It’s a throwback move,” said former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst Robert Griffin III. “He could’ve chased the bag, but he chose legacy.”
