Breaking News: Five-Star QB Shocks College Football World by Turning Down $7.6 Million, Flips Commitment to Oklahoma
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, five-star quarterback phenom Jalen Mitchell has decommitted from the University of Southern Alabama (USA) and flipped his commitment to the Oklahoma Sooners — spurning offers from Notre Dame and Florida State in the process. Even more astonishing: Mitchell reportedly turned down a jaw-dropping $7.6 million in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals to make the switch.
Mitchell, widely considered the No. 1 dual-threat quarterback in the 2025 class, made the announcement via social media early Tuesday morning, stating simply, “My heart is in Norman. Boomer Sooner.”
Sources close to the recruitment say Mitchell had been leaning toward Notre Dame as recently as last week, while Florida State was believed to be in his final two along with Oklahoma. His initial commitment to USA was seen as a stunner last month — a move interpreted by some as a signal of a new era in NIL influence. That commitment reportedly came with a package of incentives totaling over $7.6 million, including endorsements, marketing deals, and performance bonuses.
But according to those close to Mitchell, the 18-year-old prioritized tradition, development, and long-term NFL potential over short-term financial gain.
“Jalen wants to play for national championships, not just chase paychecks,” one source said. “He believes Oklahoma gives him the best shot to grow as a player and reach the NFL as a first-round pick.”
Mitchell’s decision is a massive win for new Sooners head coach Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby, who have now secured their quarterback of the future. The commitment instantly vaults Oklahoma’s 2025 recruiting class into the top five nationally.
Notre Dame and Florida State are left reeling, both having made strong pushes in the final days of Mitchell’s recruitment. The Fighting Irish were reportedly prepared to offer Mitchell a more structured NIL package through their established collective, while Florida State leaned on its recent on-field success and high-powered offense.
This flip also renews debate about the impact of NIL on college football. Mitchell’s rejection of a historic NIL deal is being seen as a potential shift — a sign that not every top recruit can be swayed by money alone.
For now, Oklahoma fans are celebrating the addition of a generational talent. And the rest of the college football world? They’re left scrambling — and stunned — by one of the most dramatic recruiting twists in recent memory.
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