Unprecedented Rejection: Geno Smith Turns Down \$6.5 Million NIL Offer from USC, Choosing NFL Loyalty Over College Return
In a move that has stunned both the college football and professional sports worlds, Geno Smith, the Las Vegas Raiders’ veteran quarterback, reportedly declined a substantial \$6.5 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer from the University of Southern California (USC). This unprecedented decision highlights Smith’s unwavering commitment to his NFL career and his current team, despite the allure of a lucrative return to college football.
The Offer and the Decision
According to sources close to the situation, USC extended a generous NIL deal to Smith, aiming to bolster their quarterback lineup with the seasoned professional. The offer, amounting to \$6.5 million, was one of the most substantial NIL deals ever presented to a former college star. However, Smith, who played college football at West Virginia University, chose to remain focused on his professional journey with the Raiders.
A close associate of Smith remarked, “Geno’s decision was rooted in his dedication to the NFL and his current team. He believes his place is in the professional arena, continuing to contribute at the highest level.”
Geno Smith’s NFL Journey
Smith’s NFL career has been marked by resilience and growth. After being drafted by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, Smith experienced a series of challenges and transitions. His tenure included stints with the New York Giants and the Los Angeles Chargers before finding a resurgence with the Seattle Seahawks. Under the guidance of head coach Pete Carroll, Smith earned two Pro Bowl selections in 2022 and 2023 and was named the NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2022.
In March 2025, Smith was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders, reuniting with Coach Carroll. The Raiders, seeking stability at the quarterback position, signed Smith to a two-year, \$75 million contract extension .
The NIL Landscape and Its Implications
The emergence of NIL deals has significantly altered the landscape of college athletics, offering student-athletes unprecedented financial opportunities. However, Smith’s rejection of the USC offer underscores a preference for the structure and competition of the NFL over the collegiate environment, even when faced with substantial financial incentives.
Analysts suggest that Smith’s decision may influence other professional athletes, particularly those in the latter stages of their careers, to reconsider the allure of college football’s financial prospects. “Geno’s choice could set a precedent for other professionals who value their current positions and the stability of the NFL over the potential short-term gains of college football,” noted a sports industry expert.
Conclusion
Geno Smith’s unprecedented rejection of a \$6.5 million NIL offer from USC serves as a testament to his loyalty to the NFL and his current team, the Las Vegas Raiders. His decision emphasizes a commitment to professional growth and team cohesion over financial temptation, setting a noteworthy example in the evolving intersection of college and professional sports.
