In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves across the college football landscape, Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer has declined a jaw-dropping $4.5 million NIL offer from the Georgia Bulldogs—a deal that would have made him the highest-paid college backup-turned-heir apparent in program history.
Instead of chasing a bigger payday or the presumed path to the SEC Championship under Kirby Smart, Mateer chose loyalty, stability, and belief in Brent Venables’ Oklahoma program—a decision that’s being hailed as one of the most honorable in the NIL era. In an age where the lure of lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness deals is reshaping rosters overnight, Mateer’s move is both refreshing and radical.
The Tempting Offer: $4.5 Million and a Starting Job
Sources close to Georgia’s program confirmed that Mateer was approached in early June with a full NIL package that included a base deal of $4.5 million, numerous brand endorsements, and the promise of stepping into the coveted starting quarterback role in 2025, following the anticipated NFL departure of Carson Beck.
The deal was backed by multiple major boosters and a growing NIL collective in Athens that has recently stepped up efforts to keep Georgia at the top of the college football world. The offer would have required Mateer to enter the transfer portal immediately, with a fast-track integration into the Bulldogs’ summer workouts.
But Mateer didn’t bite.
Instead, the redshirt sophomore from Little Elm, Texas, informed both his inner circle and Oklahoma’s coaching staff that he had no intentions of leaving the Sooners.
“I’m built different,” Mateer reportedly told teammates during a closed-door meeting at the OU locker room. “You can’t put a price tag on loyalty, on trust, or on the grind we’ve been through together. I came here to finish what I started.”
Background: The Rise of John Mateer
John Mateer wasn’t a five-star out of high school. He wasn’t even expected to become the next face of Oklahoma football. But those who have followed his development know that Mateer’s work ethic, leadership, and arm talent have quietly made him one of the most promising quarterbacks in the country.
Mateer stepped in late during the 2024 season following Dillon Gabriel’s NFL declaration and Jackson Arnold’s transfer. He showed poise, mobility, and command of Jeff Lebby’s offensive system, earning the trust of the staff and fans alike. His performance in Oklahoma’s bowl game victory—where he threw for 278 yards and 3 touchdowns against a stingy SEC defense—cemented his role as the presumed starter heading into the 2025 season.
In December, he quietly secured a $2.1 million NIL deal with Oklahoma-based partners, including Love’s Travel Stops, Norman-based tech startups, and a national clothing brand seeking a clean-cut, loyal athlete to represent the “New Midwest.” But even that number paled in comparison to the $4.5M offer from Georgia.
Venables Reacts: “You Can’t Buy Culture”
Head Coach Brent Venables, entering his fourth season in Norman, did not mince words when asked about Mateer’s decision.
“John Mateer just proved you can’t buy culture,” Venables said. “In this world of instant gratification and flashy offers, he stayed true to the brotherhood, to the grind, to Oklahoma. That’s a man you can build a program around.”
Venables, who has seen a wave of talent depart and arrive through the portal, lauded Mateer’s decision as a turning point in Oklahoma’s quest to bring back the consistent dominance of the Lincoln Riley era—only this time, with a defensive backbone and loyalty as the cornerstone.
A Message to Recruits: “You Can Still Win the Right Way”
Mateer’s decision sends a clear message to current and future recruits: the NIL arms race doesn’t have to kill loyalty. In fact, Mateer’s growing brand is proof that sticking with your original commitment can enhance your long-term value.
Within 24 hours of the news breaking, Mateer’s social media following jumped by over 110,000. Three additional brands reached out for future partnerships, including an Oklahoma-based real estate group and a national sports hydration company. His refusal to chase a quick bag might ironically make him even more marketable.
“John Mateer is going to be a millionaire either way,” said OU NIL consultant Terry Graham. “But what he’s doing now is building something far bigger—an image of character, grit, and leadership that resonates with sponsors and fans.”
Locker Room Impact: The Players React
Inside the Sooners’ locker room, Mateer’s decision wasn’t just respected—it was celebrated.
“He had every reason to leave,” said wide receiver Jaquaize Pettaway. “A better offer, a shot at the top team in the country, maybe even an easier road to the Playoff. But he said no. That’s our leader.”
Several Oklahoma players took to social media to voice their admiration for Mateer. Star linebacker Kip Lewis posted, “This is why we ride for each other. Loyalty > everything. #BoomerSooner.”
Even alumni weighed in. Former OU QB Jalen Hurts reposted the story with three words: “Respect. Loyalty. Legacy.”
SEC Impact: Oklahoma’s Statement Ahead of SEC Jump
Oklahoma officially joins the SEC this fall, and the timing of Mateer’s decision couldn’t be more symbolic.
In turning down Georgia—perhaps the biggest power player in the conference—Mateer made it clear that Oklahoma isn’t entering the SEC to be anyone’s little brother.
The Sooners are coming in with a quarterback who spurned the top dog, a coach building through toughness and culture, and a roster brimming with belief.
Oklahoma’s 2025 schedule is a gauntlet, with matchups against Alabama, LSU, and Texas. But with Mateer leading the way, there’s a newfound swagger in Norman. And this time, it isn’t built on flash—it’s forged in loyalty and sacrifice.
Industry Fallout: What This Means for NIL Landscape
Mateer’s refusal to take the $4.5M deal comes at a time when the NCAA is under intense scrutiny over its handling of NIL regulation, tampering, and the blurred lines between endorsement and inducement.
Some insiders believe this saga could push lawmakers and NCAA leadership to reevaluate how offers are tracked, structured, and reported.
“There are whispers Georgia approached this improperly,” said one Big 12 administrator off the record. “Whether Mateer says it or not, the portal tampering lines were crossed. But thankfully, he chose integrity.”
Meanwhile, NIL collectives around the country are already using the Mateer example as a rallying cry. A Texas Tech rep posted, “Loyalty still matters. Don’t chase fake offers. Build your brand where your heart is.”
Closing Thoughts: Mateer’s Legacy Already Taking Shape
John Mateer may not have taken a single SEC snap yet, but his legend is already being written in Norman.
By choosing Oklahoma over Georgia—character over cash—he’s carved out a reputation that transcends touchdowns and trophy cases. He’s reminded the college football world that value isn’t always measured in dollar signs.
He’s chosen to stay and lead, not leave and follow.
In today’s chaotic NIL landscape, that’s worth far more than $4.5 million.
And as Oklahoma prepares for a new chapter in the SEC, they do so with the rarest of leaders under center: one who puts legacy above leverage.
Boomer Sooner.
Quick Facts: John Mateer’s NIL & Career Profile
- Class: Redshirt Sophomore
- Height/Weight: 6’1”, 215 lbs
- 2024 Stats: 1,456 yards, 12 TDs, 2 INTs (in 6 starts)
- Bowl Game MVP vs. Ole Miss (2024 Sugar Bowl)
- Current NIL Earnings: Approx. $2.1M
- Declined Offer: $4.5M NIL Deal from Georgia
- Major Sponsors: Love’s, Red Dirt Hydration, Varsity Property Group
