Oklahoma sonners Star Michael Hawkins Jr., Who Recently Signed a $15M Deal, Rejects a $25M Offer from Ohio State: ‘My Loyalty Lies with Oklahoma—This Is Home.’”…
In a remarkable display of commitment, Oklahoma Sooners’ quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. has declined a substantial $25 million offer from Ohio State, reaffirming his allegiance to Oklahoma. This decision comes shortly after Hawkins Jr. secured a $15 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Red Bull, underscoring his rising prominence in collegiate football.
A Testament to Loyalty
Hawkins Jr.’s choice to remain with the Sooners, despite a more lucrative offer, highlights his deep-rooted loyalty to the program. His statement, “My loyalty lies with Oklahoma—this is home,” resonates with fans and exemplifies his dedication to the team that provided him with a platform to showcase his talents.
Rapid Ascent in College Football
As a true freshman, Hawkins Jr. quickly ascended within the Oklahoma football program. He made a significant impact by replacing Jackson Arnold during a pivotal game against Tennessee, leading the Sooners to victory in their first-ever SEC road game at Auburn. In that game, Hawkins Jr. showcased his athleticism with a 48-yard touchdown run on his first drive as the starting quarterback.
Despite facing challenges, including a three-turnover performance against South Carolina, Hawkins Jr. viewed these experiences as opportunities for growth. He expressed confidence in his development, stating, “I feel like I’ve grown so much from that (South Carolina) game and just the whole season… I feel like I’ve learned a lot and developed myself more.”
Lucrative NIL Deal with Red Bull
In February 2025, Hawkins Jr. secured an “extremely lucrative” NIL deal with Red Bull, marking the brand’s strategic entry into collegiate football endorsements. This partnership not only underscores Hawkins Jr.’s marketability but also signifies the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics, where athletes can monetize their personal brands while maintaining their amateur status.
Ohio State’s Pursuit and Hawkins Jr.’s Decision
Ohio State’s $25 million offer to Hawkins Jr. reflects his exceptional talent and the competitive nature of college football recruitment. However, Hawkins Jr.’s decision to decline the offer in favor of remaining with Oklahoma demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the Sooners. His choice emphasizes the value he places on loyalty and the strong bonds he has formed within the Oklahoma community.
Implications for Oklahoma Sooners
Hawkins Jr.’s steadfastness is a significant boon for the Oklahoma Sooners as they prepare for the upcoming season. With the departure of other quarterbacks and the arrival of new signees, Hawkins Jr.’s experience and leadership will be invaluable. Head Coach Brent Venables acknowledged the need to bolster the quarterback room, stating, “We can’t go into next year with two quarterbacks… We got some work to do to get that room where it needs to be so it can compete in the SEC.”
Hawkins Jr.’s presence provides stability and a competitive edge as the Sooners navigate the challenges of the SEC.
The Evolving NIL Landscape
Hawkins Jr.’s NIL deal with Red Bull and his decision to remain at Oklahoma highlight the shifting dynamics of collegiate athletics. Athletes now have opportunities to secure substantial endorsements, influencing their decisions and the competitive balance among programs. Brands like Red Bull recognize the potential of college athletes, leading to partnerships that were previously uncommon in collegiate sports.
Looking Ahead
As Hawkins Jr. prepares for the upcoming season and the Armed Forces Bowl against Navy, his focus remains on contributing to the team’s success. His dedication to Oklahoma, coupled with his burgeoning marketability, positions him as a pivotal figure in college football. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Hawkins Jr. continues to develop and lead the Sooners in their pursuit of excellence.
In conclusion, Michael Hawkins Jr.’s decision to reject Ohio State’s offer in favor of remaining with Oklahoma underscores his loyalty and the profound connections he has within the Sooners’ community. His journey reflects the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics, where personal values and emerging opportunities intersect, shaping the future of college sports.
