**Five-Star QB Shocks College Football World by Turning Down \$7.5 Million, Decommits from Florida Gators, and Flips Commitment to Michigan Over Notre Dame and Florida State Seminoles**
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, five-star quarterback phenom Jalen Richards has officially decommitted from the Florida Gators, turning down a staggering \$7.5 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal in the process. Richards, the No. 1 ranked quarterback in the 2025 class, has instead announced his commitment to the University of Michigan, choosing the Wolverines over powerhouses Notre Dame and Florida State.
Richards’ decision comes at a time when NIL deals are reshaping the college football landscape, with many top recruits opting for programs offering the most lucrative financial packages.
However, Richards made it clear in a press conference that his choice wasn’t about the money.
“I’m not chasing dollars. I’m chasing greatness,” said Richards. “Michigan represents everything I’m looking for — a championship culture, elite development, and a program that puts winning and legacy above all else.”
The 6-foot-4, 215-pound quarterback from Buford, Georgia, had been committed to Florida since last summer and was considered the centerpiece of their 2025 recruiting class.
His departure delivers a devastating blow to Billy Napier’s recruiting efforts and raises further questions about the direction of the Gators program.
According to multiple sources, Richards was offered \$7.5 million in NIL incentives by Gator-aligned collectives, making it one of the most lucrative offers ever presented to a high school athlete.
The deal reportedly included brand endorsements, merchandise revenue, and a national ad campaign lined up for his freshman year.
Despite the financial lure, Richards said he was swayed by the Wolverines’ recent success, including back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances and a national title run.
He also cited head coach Sherrone Moore’s vision for the future and Michigan’s proven track record in developing NFL-caliber quarterbacks.
Recruiting insiders note that Notre Dame and Florida State made strong late pushes. The Seminoles pitched their explosive offensive system and recent success in the ACC, while Notre Dame emphasized their combination of academic excellence and on-field tradition.
But in the end, Michigan won the battle — and potentially the war for college football’s next generational talent.
The move also speaks volumes about Richards’ priorities. In an era increasingly defined by NIL negotiations, his decision stands out as a throwback to the values that once dominated recruiting: tradition, winning, and player development.
Richards is expected to enroll early at Michigan and compete for the starting job in 2026. With his arm talent, mobility, and leadership, analysts believe he could be the face of the program and a potential No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick in a few years.
For now, Michigan fans are celebrating what may be the biggest recruiting coup in program history. As one source close to the program put it: “We didn’t just get a quarterback. We got a future legend.”
