Breaking News: Five-Star QB Shocks College Football World by Turning Down $9.5 Million, Decommits from American and Flips Commitment to Florida Gators Over Notre Dame and Florida State
In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football landscape, five-star quarterback phenom Malik Thompson has flipped his commitment to the Florida Gators, spurning powerhouse programs Notre Dame and Florida State, and stunningly walking away from a reported $9.5 million NIL offer tied to his original commitment to American University.
Yes, you read that correctly — $9.5 million.
In an era where Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals are transforming the recruiting game and drawing elite talent toward programs offering the biggest financial incentives, Thompson’s decision to prioritize fit, culture, and development over cash is being hailed as one of the most surprising and mature moves by a young athlete in recent memory.
A Shocking Decommitment
Thompson, who is widely considered the top dual-threat quarterback in the 2025 class, had previously committed to American University in what many believed was a groundbreaking move. Despite the program’s relatively modest football history, the school reportedly offered a jaw-dropping NIL package estimated at $9.5 million — making it one of the largest known deals offered to a high school recruit.
But on Wednesday morning, Thompson released a personal video statement across his social media platforms, announcing his decision to decommit from American and flip to the University of Florida.
> “After much prayer, conversation with my family, and reflection on what really matters to me, I’ve decided to change course,” Thompson said in the video. “It’s not just about the money. I want to be somewhere that pushes me to be my best — as a player, a student, and a man. That place is Gainesville. I’m 100% committed to the Florida Gators.”
Choosing Florida Over Blue Bloods
Thompson’s flip came as a shock not just because of the