In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the college football universe and beyond, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has reportedly declined a staggering $55 million ambassador deal from the University of Oklahoma. The offer, which would have made him the face of Sooner Nation’s branding and recruitment efforts, was turned down flat as Hurts reaffirmed his unbreakable bond with his first collegiate home: the University of Alabama. “My heart belongs to Tuscaloosa,” Hurts declared in a heartfelt statement. “Alabama gave me a home, a family, and a legacy that means more than any deal. Roll Tide forever! And I remain committed to the roots that shaped me.”
This bombshell decision, revealed on August 28, 2025, underscores Hurts’ loyalty in an era where NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and massive endorsements often sway athletes like trade winds. At 27 years old and fresh off leading the Eagles to another playoff run, Hurts could have cashed in on his dual legacy—splitting his college career between Alabama (2016-2018) and Oklahoma (2019). But instead, he chose sentiment over dollars, igniting debates about integrity, gratitude, and the commercialization of sports.
To understand the magnitude of this rejection, let’s rewind to Hurts’ collegiate journey. Born in Houston, Texas, Hurts arrived at Alabama as a highly touted freshman in 2016. Under legendary coach Nick Saban, he quickly became a Crimson Tide sensation. As a true freshman, he led Alabama to the National Championship game, throwing for over 2,700 yards and 23 touchdowns while rushing for 954 yards and 13 more scores. Though they fell short against Clemson, Hurts’ poise under pressure earned him SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors.
His sophomore year was even more electric. Hurts guided Alabama to an undefeated regular season and another title game appearance. In a dramatic twist during the 2018 National Championship against Georgia, Hurts was benched at halftime for backup Tua Tagovailoa, who orchestrated a comeback victory. It was a gut-wrenching moment that tested Hurts’ resolve. Rather than transfer immediately, he stayed as a backup in 2018, contributing in key moments, including a heroic relief performance in the SEC Championship that secured Alabama’s playoff spot.
But opportunity knocked elsewhere. In January 2019, Hurts transferred to Oklahoma, where he thrived under Lincoln Riley. He threw for 3,851 yards and 32 touchdowns, rushed for 1,298 yards and 20 scores, and finished second in Heisman Trophy voting. The Sooners made the College Football Playoff, cementing Hurts as a resilient star. His time in Norman was transformative, but it was Alabama where his story began—and, apparently, where his allegiance endures.
The proposed Oklahoma deal, sources say, was a multi-year pact positioning Hurts as a global ambassador for the Sooners’ athletic programs. Valued at $55 million, it included promotional appearances, merchandise lines, and NIL collaborations with OU alumni networks. With Oklahoma’s recent move to the SEC and booming booster funds, the offer aimed to leverage Hurts’ star power to attract top recruits and boost fan engagement. “It was a no-brainer for us,” an anonymous OU official told reporters. “Jalen’s success here proved our program’s resilience. This could have been a win-win.”
Yet Hurts, whose net worth already exceeds $50 million from his $255 million Eagles extension and endorsements like Jordan Brand and Eastbay, prioritized legacy over lucre. His statement echoes the values instilled at Alabama: discipline, process, and family. “Tuscaloosa isn’t just a place; it’s who I am,” he elaborated in an exclusive interview. Fans on social media erupted in support, with #RollTideForever trending worldwide. Alabama boosters are reportedly thrilled, hinting at potential counter-offers to formalize Hurts’ role as a Tide icon.
Critics, however, question the optics. Some argue Hurts owes Oklahoma gratitude for revitalizing his career post-benching. “He wouldn’t be an NFL MVP candidate without that Heisman run,” tweeted one sports analyst. Others see it as a savvy PR move, burnishing his image as the ultimate loyalist in a mercenary market. Regardless, this snub highlights the evolving NIL landscape, where deals can reach nine figures but personal ties still hold sway.
For Hurts, this isn’t about money—it’s about roots. As he gears up for the 2025 NFL season, aiming for a Super Bowl ring, his decision reminds us that some legacies are priceless. In a world of fleeting alliances, Jalen Hurts stands firm: Roll Tide forever. And he remains a beacon of unwavering loyalty.
