🏈 ESPN REPORT: “Way to Go, Behren!” — Morton Turns Down $5M Offer from Wisconsin to Cement Red Raider Legacy
LUBBOCK, TX — In a college football era dominated by transfer portal drama and record-setting NIL deals, Behren Morton just sent a powerful message: loyalty still matters. The Texas Tech quarterback has reportedly turned down a $5 million NIL-style offer from the Wisconsin Badgers, reaffirming his commitment to the Red Raiders and the city of Lubbock.
> “I grew up with Scarlet Red and Black,” Morton said in a statement. “I love this club, and this fans. There was never any real thought of leaving. I want to finish what I started here and become one of the greats.”
The offer from Wisconsin, according to sources close to the program, was structured through multiple corporate NIL endorsements and would have made Morton one of the highest-paid players in college football. But instead of chasing dollars, the junior quarterback chose to stay true to the school that believed in him.
🔙 A Hometown Hero
Morton, a product of Eastland, Texas, was a four-star recruit who chose to stay in-state with Texas Tech over offers from programs like Baylor, Oklahoma State, and USC. Since stepping into a starting role in 2022, he’s become a cornerstone for the Red Raiders’ offense and a leader in the locker room.
Over the past two seasons, Morton has thrown for 6,209 yards, 47 touchdowns, and led the Red Raiders to multiple key Big 12 wins, including last year’s upset of No. 11 Iowa State. He’s already cracked Tech’s all-time top 10 in passing yards and completions.
🔁 A Statement Against the Trend
As other top QBs seek bigger stages or lucrative NIL deals, Morton’s choice to remain at Tech bucks the growing trend. His loyalty is earning praise across college football, especially in Lubbock, where fans have embraced his competitive spirit and commitment.
> “This is a guy who believes in what we’re building,” said head coach Joey McGuire. “He’s not just playing for himself—he’s playing for this team, this city, and this legacy.”
💪 What’s Next for Morton
Morton recently underwent elective shoulder surgery to ensure he’s 100% for the 2025 season. All signs point to him being fully healthy and ready to take on a leadership role as the Red Raiders push for a Big 12 title and national relevance.
With elite receivers returning and momentum on their side, Texas Tech’s offense looks ready to shine—and Morton is the engine behind it.
🛑 Loyalty Wins
In an age where players often follow the money, Behren Morton is doing something rare: staying the course. By turning down Wisconsin’s $5M offer, he’s cementing not just his place in Lubbock lore—but perhaps his legacy as one of the most respected leaders in college football today.