Stunning Decision: Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin turns down a staggering $8.5 million NIL deal from USC, choosing loyalty to his team over money and declaring his lifelong commitment to Ohio State.

Stunning Decision: Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin turns down a staggering $8.5 million NIL deal from USC, choosing loyalty to his team over money and declaring his lifelong commitment to Ohio State.

Stunning Decision: Julian Sayin Turns Down $8.5M NIL Offer to Stay Loyal to Ohio State

In a bold and unexpected move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin has declined an eye-popping $8.5 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer from the University of Southern California (USC).

Instead of chasing one of the largest NIL deals offered to a college athlete, Sayin chose to stay true to his roots and reaffirm his unwavering loyalty to Ohio State.

Sayin’s decision, in an era where top athletes often follow the money, has drawn widespread admiration from fans, coaches, and analysts alike.

His commitment to team loyalty over financial gain is a rare example of character and dedication that many believe college athletics desperately needs.

Julian Sayin, one of the most highly touted quarterback prospects in the nation, transferred to Ohio State with high expectations.

He has quickly become a leader in the locker room and a fan favorite, known not just for his arm strength and field vision, but also for his humility, leadership, and competitive spirit. While other players around the country have made headlines by jumping programs for lucrative NIL deals, Sayin’s decision sends a strong message: for some, legacy and loyalty mean more than money.

In a statement released shortly after the news broke, Sayin expressed his gratitude for the opportunity presented by USC but made it clear that his heart belongs in Columbus.

“USC’s offer was incredibly generous, and I appreciate their interest,” Sayin said. “But I came to Ohio State for a reason—to be part of a tradition, to compete at the highest level, and to help bring championships back to Buckeye Nation. I’m not here to chase a paycheck—I’m here to make history.”

That declaration—“I’m here to make history”—is already resonating deeply within the Ohio State community.

Fans have flooded social media with praise for Sayin’s decision, calling him the embodiment of what it means to be a Buckeye. For many, he’s already cemented his place in school lore, not for what he’s done on the field, but for the character he’s shown off of it.

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day also weighed in on the news, calling Sayin’s decision a reflection of the culture the program strives to build. “Julian’s commitment speaks volumes,” Day said.

“We want guys who believe in what we’re building—not just the wins, but the brotherhood, the legacy. Julian gets that.”

As NIL continues to reshape the landscape of college sports, Sayin’s stand is a reminder that passion, purpose, and pride still matter.

While $8.5 million is life-changing money, Sayin believes that what he’s building at Ohio State—legacy, relationships, and memories—can’t be bought.

His decision may go down as one of the defining moments of this new NIL era. And as far as Julian Sayin is concerned, he’s not going anywhere—he’s a Buckeye for life.