Kyron Drones Shocks College Football World: Turns Down $6.5 Million USC NIL Offer to Stay at Virginia Tech

In an era where college athletes are increasingly swayed by the promises of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) riches, Virginia Tech quarterback Kyron Drones has made a move that defies the current trend—and stunned the college football community.

Sources close to the Hokies’ program confirmed that Drones, a former five-star recruit and one of the most electric dual-threat quarterbacks in the nation, declined a staggering $6.5 million NIL offer from the University of Southern California. The offer, reportedly structured over two seasons, included commercial endorsements, luxury housing in Los Angeles, and an exclusive apparel deal with a major West Coast brand.

But Drones said no.

Instead, the 6’2″, 225-pound quarterback chose to remain in Blacksburg—cementing his loyalty to Virginia Tech and reinforcing his commitment to building something special with the Hokies.

“This is home now,” Drones reportedly told his teammates during a private team meeting. “No amount of money can replace trust, family, or what we’re building right here.”

Virginia Tech head coach Brent Pry responded to the news with pride and admiration, saying, “Kyron isn’t just a leader on the field—he’s setting an example off of it. He’s showing the world what it means to truly believe in your team and your purpose.”

Drones, who transferred from Baylor and has since become the face of the Hokies’ resurgence, passed for over 2,800 yards and rushed for another 600 last season. With a potent arm and unmatched field vision, many analysts expected him to be the next quarterback domino to fall in this lucrative NIL landscape.

Instead, he’s chosen legacy over leverage.

With Drones at the helm, Virginia Tech now enters the 2025 season not just as a Coastal contender—but as a team powered by principle, not just profit.