BREAKING NEWS: Five-Star QB Shocks College Football World by Turning Down $6.3 Million, Decommits from Colorado, and Flips Commitment to Michigan Over Notre Dame and Florida State Seminole…..
BREAKING NEWS: Five-Star QB Shocks College Football World by Turning Down $6.3 Million, Decommits from Colorado, and Flips Commitment to Michigan Over Notre Dame and Florida State
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves across the college football landscape, five-star quarterback phenom Jalen Richards has decommitted from Colorado, rejecting a reported $6.3 million NIL package, and announced his commitment to the University of Michigan. The decision, confirmed via a social media video posted Monday afternoon, ends weeks of speculation about the future of the top dual-threat quarterback in the 2025 class.
Richards, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound standout from Houston, Texas, had been the crown jewel of Colorado’s class and a key part of head coach Deion Sanders’ recruiting efforts. His flip is a crushing blow to the Buffaloes, who had built their 2025 strategy around Richards’ elite playmaking abilities and national appeal. With comparisons to Michael Vick and Lamar Jackson, his commitment was not just about on-field performance—it was a marketing and branding dream for Colorado’s rapidly rising program.
But Richards made it clear in a statement that his decision came down to legacy, development, and long-term vision—not just financial incentives.
“This decision wasn’t about money—it was about fit,” Richards said. “I’ve had a lot of conversations with my family, my coaches, and mentors. Michigan feels like home. The culture, the coaching, and the opportunity to compete for national championships—it all just lined up.”
According to multiple sources close to the recruitment, Michigan’s appeal was rooted in its recent resurgence, player development under new head coach Sherrone Moore, and a quarterback-friendly offensive scheme that promises immediate opportunity and NFL preparation. While Notre Dame and Florida State made late pushes, offering both tradition and strong NIL support, Michigan’s consistency and vision ultimately won over the elite prospect.
Richards’ decommitment from Colorado comes amid questions about the long-term sustainability of the Buffaloes’ recruiting strategy, which has heavily leaned into NIL offers and media buzz. Deion Sanders, known for his brash confidence and celebrity appeal, now faces growing scrutiny as another top prospect exits the program.
Meanwhile, Michigan fans erupted in celebration online as news of the commitment broke. The Wolverines, fresh off a College Football Playoff appearance and a Big Ten Championship, have now secured one of the top quarterback recruits in the nation—a critical win in the arms race of elite college football talent.
“This is the kind of kid who can win a Heisman and a national title,” said one Big Ten coach anonymously. “If Michigan builds around him, they’ll be in the playoff hunt for years.”
While the full impact of Richards’ decision will play out over the coming seasons, one thing is clear: this flip has reshaped the college football narrative for 2025 and sent a powerful message about the enduring value of tradition, development, and vision over dollars.
