LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier Turns Down $4.5M NIL Deal from Alabama, Prioritizes Loyalty Over Money
In a bold move that’s turning heads across the college football landscape, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier has reportedly declined a $4.5 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) offer from the University of Alabama. Instead of chasing a bigger payday, Nussmeier is choosing to remain loyal to the Tigers—a decision that speaks volumes about character in an era where money increasingly dominates college athletics.
Nussmeier, entering his fifth year with LSU, has grown into a key leader on the team. In the 2024 season, he started all 13 games, leading the Tigers to a 9-4 record and a dominant bowl victory over Baylor. His performance in both the ReliaQuest Bowl and Texas Bowl earned him MVP honors, cementing his role as a cornerstone of the program heading into 2025.
What makes this decision even more remarkable is the fact that Nussmeier is already among the top NIL earners in the country. With an estimated valuation of $3.6 million, supported by partnerships with brands like Powerade and EA Sports, he is not missing out financially by staying put. His choice reflects a deeper belief in team culture and the long-term value of loyalty, leadership, and legacy.
The quarterback’s football roots run deep. His father, Doug Nussmeier, currently serves as the quarterbacks coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, bringing decades of coaching experience and guidance. Garrett has spoken before about the importance of doing things “the right way,” and this latest decision reflects those values.
In a time when players are regularly lured away by massive NIL deals and the freedom of the transfer portal, Nussmeier’s loyalty to LSU is a rarity. It challenges the prevailing narrative that top athletes will always follow the money, and it raises new questions about how college programs and student-athletes navigate the new NIL era.
Coaches across the country may use this moment to highlight the importance of culture and continuity. Nussmeier’s return also offers LSU a level of stability at the quarterback position that’s becoming increasingly hard to find. For the Tigers, his leadership could prove just as valuable as his arm.
Ultimately, Garrett Nussmeier’s decision is about more than just football or finances. It’s a stand for integrity, loyalty, and belief in something bigger than himself. As the NIL landscape continues to evolve, his story could become a defining example of how character and commitment still matter in college sports
