In a shocking twist that has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, 5-star quarterback phenom Jalen Rivers has decommitted from both Texas and Alabama, turned down an $8.7 million NIL deal, and announced his commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers. This unprecedented move underscores a rare and bold decision by a top recruit who chose fit and loyalty over money and blue-blood prestige.
Rivers, widely considered one of the top two quarterbacks in the 2025 recruiting class, had long been expected to land with either the Alabama Crimson Tide or the Georgia Bulldogs—programs known for producing elite NFL talent and offering some of the most competitive NIL packages. Sources close to the recruitment process revealed that both SEC powerhouses made aggressive late pushes, with Alabama reportedly offering a massive $8.7 million NIL deal to secure his commitment.
But in a surprise announcement posted to social media and later confirmed in a press conference, Rivers revealed that he would instead be heading to Knoxville to lead the Tennessee Volunteers.
“This decision wasn’t about money,” Rivers said. “It was about where I feel at home, where I believe in the vision, and where I can grow as a man and a quarterback. Tennessee believed in me from Day 1.”
The flip has already sent recruiting analysts into a frenzy. The Volunteers, who have been steadily building momentum under head coach Josh Heupel, now boast one of the most elite offensive classes in the nation. Rivers’ commitment not only raises Tennessee’s national recruiting ranking but also sends a clear message that the Vols are once again a serious contender in the SEC.
Fans in Knoxville are celebrating what many are calling the biggest recruiting win for the program in over a decade, as Tennessee looks to reclaim its place among college football’s elite.
Rivers’ rare decision to turn down nearly $9 million speaks volumes about his character—and may be a turning point in how recruits value culture over cash.
