BREAKING: WVU Roster Takes a Hit — Star Player Walks Away Despite Coach’s Pleas After $4.4M Temptation!…
**BREAKING: WVU Roster Takes a Hit — Star Player Walks Away Despite Coach’s Pleas After \$4.4M Temptation!**
MORGANTOWN, W\.Va. — In a move that has stunned Mountaineer Nation and sent shockwaves across college football, **West Virginia University star quarterback Jalen Carter** has officially announced his departure from the program — just weeks before the start of fall camp — after reportedly accepting a **\$4.4 million NIL offer** tied to a major media and endorsement deal.
The junior signal-caller, who was expected to lead WVU into a pivotal 2025 season, made the announcement via social media late Sunday night, citing “an opportunity that changed everything.” His decision comes after intense conversations with head coach Neal Brown and athletic department officials, who made an 11th-hour push to convince him to stay.
> “This was not an easy decision,” Carter wrote in his statement. “I love West Virginia. I love my teammates. But this opportunity is life-changing for me and my family. I had to make a business move.”
Sources close to the program confirm that Carter was approached by a high-profile sports agency and streaming service — reportedly the same group that recently inked similar deals with other high-profile college athletes. The package includes endorsement rights, a featured docuseries, a branded apparel line, and appearances across national platforms. Combined, the deal is valued at approximately **\$4.4 million over 18 months** — surpassing what WVU’s NIL collective could match.
Carter’s exit is a devastating blow to a WVU roster that was building momentum after a strong finish last season. The dual-threat quarterback was widely viewed as the face of the program — a charismatic leader, Heisman dark horse, and one of the most dynamic playmakers in the Big 12. He passed for 3,147 yards and 26 touchdowns while rushing for another 9 scores last season, leading the Mountaineers to a bowl victory and earning All-Big 12 honors.
Head Coach Neal Brown, speaking to reporters Monday morning, didn’t hide his disappointment.
> “We did everything in our power to keep Jalen in Morgantown,” Brown said. “We laid out a plan — not just for this season, but for his future in the NFL. But when you’re competing against millions of dollars upfront, it’s tough. That’s the reality of the landscape we’re in.”
Carter’s departure leaves a massive void at quarterback and significantly alters WVU’s trajectory heading into the 2025 campaign. Sophomore backup Trevor Fields and redshirt freshman Malik Simmons are now expected to battle for the starting job.
Fans and teammates took to social media with a mix of heartbreak and understanding. Many thanked Carter for his contributions, while others expressed concern about the future of college football in the ever-expanding world of Name, Image, and Likeness.
> “He made a decision for his future,” said linebacker Tyrese Vaughn. “No hard feelings. But it’s tough losing your QB1 this close to the season.”
As for Carter, he insists that his heart remains in Morgantown — even as he steps into a new chapter far beyond Milan Puskar Stadium.
> “I’ll always be a Mountaineer,” he wrote. “This place raised me. But sometimes, the road to greatness takes an unexpected turn.”
