**Collapse Deal: Texas Tech Star QB Rejects $35 Million Offer, Announces Departure**
In a shocking turn of events that has sent waves through the college football world, Texas Tech’s star quarterback has rejected a lucrative $35 million offer from the university and announced his intention to leave the program. The move marks one of the most high-profile NIL-related shakeups in recent memory, sparking questions about the future of both the player and the Red Raiders.
The quarterback, widely considered one of the most talented players in the country and a projected top NFL draft pick, released a brief but powerful statement on social media early Friday morning: *“I’m leaving. This decision wasn’t easy, but it’s time for the next chapter.”*
The announcement comes just days after reports emerged that Texas Tech had made a record-breaking NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) offer of $35 million to keep the quarterback in Lubbock for another season. Sources close to the situation say the offer included sponsorship deals, revenue-sharing opportunities, and even equity in local businesses — a package that would have made him one of the highest-paid athletes in college sports history.
But despite the financial incentives, the QB declined the offer. Insiders suggest that while money was a factor, it wasn’t the deciding one.
“He’s looking at the bigger picture,” said a source close to the player. “He’s got NFL aspirations, and he wants to make sure he’s in the right system, surrounded by the right talent, to develop at the highest level.”
The decision has left Texas Tech scrambling. With spring practices already underway and expectations running high for the upcoming season, the sudden departure of their offensive centerpiece is a devastating blow. Head coach Joey McGuire expressed disappointment but wished his former quarterback well.
“We offered everything we could because we believe in him and what he means to this program,” McGuire said during a press conference Friday afternoon. “But ultimately, he has to make the best decision for himself. We respect that.”
The quarterback’s next destination is still unknown, but speculation is already rampant. Multiple powerhouse programs and professional alternatives — including a leap to the NFL or the UFL — are reportedly in play. Some analysts even suggest he may follow the path of former high-profile athletes who leveraged their brand to go independent.
“This is uncharted territory,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “We’re seeing the power dynamics in college football shift dramatically. It’s not just about tradition or loyalty anymore — it’s a business, and these young men are starting to take control of their futures in a way we’ve never seen before.”
For Texas Tech fans, the news is bittersweet. The star quarterback led the Red Raiders to one of their most successful seasons in recent history, reigniting hope for a national title run. Now, that dream will have to be put on hold.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the college football landscape is changing fast — and this latest collapse deal is proof that no offer, no matter how massive, can guarantee loyalty in the new NIL era.
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