In a stunning twist that has rocked the college football landscape, Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin has reportedly turned down a massive $4.5 million NIL offer from the University of Georgia, who had earmarked him as the heir to outgoing star Carson Beck.
Sources close to the situation say Sayin, who secured $2.1 million in NIL deals back in December, opted to remain loyal to Ohio State despite the eye-watering payday on the table. The decision flies in the face of the growing trend of top-tier talent chasing the biggest NIL offers—highlighting Sayin’s unique commitment to legacy, culture, and development over dollar signs.
The 5-star signal-caller, originally a standout in the 2024 recruiting class, transferred to Ohio State after initially signing with Alabama. Since arriving in Columbus, Sayin has quickly ascended the depth chart and emerged as a potential face of the program heading into the 2025 season.
Georgia’s offer, according to insiders, was not just about money—it came with promises of a starting role, national title contention, and NFL grooming in the wake of Beck’s likely departure to the NFL Draft. But Sayin wasn’t swayed.
“Julian believes in the Buckeyes’ system, the staff, and what he’s building here,” said a source close to Sayin’s camp. “It was never just about the money.”
In an NIL era defined by high-stakes poaching and million-dollar bidding wars, Sayin’s decision stands out as a rare act of loyalty and long-term vision. Whether it pays off on the field remains to be seen—but in the eyes of many Ohio State fans, he’s already won.
