BREAKING NEWS: WVU QB Nicco Marchiol Donates Entire $20 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Windfall to Honor Mountaineer Legend Major Harris
Morgantown, WV – June 23, 2025
In a jaw-dropping act of gratitude, humility, and Mountaineer pride, West Virginia quarterback Nicco Marchiol has donated his entire $20 million NFL signing bonus and sponsorship earnings to establish the Major Harris Remembrance Initiative, a landmark tribute to one of the most iconic players in WVU football history.
The 23-year-old Marchiol, who recently signed a multi-year NFL deal with Adidas and was selected in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, stunned reporters and fans alike at a press conference in Morgantown this morning.
“This program, this state, and this legacy made me who I am,” Marchiol said, fighting back tears. “Major Harris wasn’t just a pioneer on the field — he was a symbol of resilience, swagger, and Mountaineer magic. I owe my career to the doors he opened.”
The Major Harris Remembrance Initiative will fund a variety of projects, including:
- The Major Harris Legacy Center — a state-of-the-art athletic and academic facility on the WVU campus that will mentor underserved youth across Appalachia.
- A full-ride scholarship fund for student-athletes who exemplify Major Harris’ leadership and trailblazing spirit.
- A permanent statue and interactive exhibit at Milan Puskar Stadium, set to be unveiled during the 2025 season opener.
- Annual “Majestic 9” Award, honoring the most electrifying dual-threat QB in college football — named after Harris’ famous jersey number.
Harris, who passed away unexpectedly in early 2025, remains one of the most beloved figures in WVU history. As the first true dual-threat quarterback to electrify the college game, his 1988 campaign led the Mountaineers to an undefeated regular season and a berth in the national championship.
“Nicco’s gift is more than money,” said former coach Don Nehlen. “It’s a declaration that legends live on through legacy. Major would’ve smiled ear to ear.”
WVU fans are already calling Marchiol’s act “the greatest handoff in Mountaineer history.”
The streets of Morgantown are buzzing. The past and future of WVU football just collided — and the result is nothing short of legendary.
