Penn State was probably never really in the mix for Jaden Rashada, especially at the end, but late last year the quarterback from California did list the Nittany Lions in his top 10.
Rashada, who committed to Miami over the weekend, was unique then, and maybe even more so now. Because, not only does the 6-foot-4, 185-pound, 4-star Class of 2023 prospect appear to be a special talent, he may be the most interesting NIL story to date in that rapidly evolving landscape.
- Micah Parsons, quickly becoming one of the NFL’s brightest ambassadors, makes it clear once again that he wants to be an all-time great
- Saquon Barkley’s name reported among athletes who have lost millions in the crypto crash. But did he really?
- Every former Penn State football player on an NFL roster following the 2022 draft
Rashada, folks may remember, reportedly had an NIL deal back then, and was set to make “four-figures” in a deal to promote the Athletes in Recruitment app. But that pales in comparison to the NIL deal he is reportedly set to receive to play for the Hurricanes.
How much is he getting?
Well, On3 reported Sunday that Rashada agreed to an NIL deal with John Ruiz, a “Miami mega-booster,” for $9.5 million. That is, per On3, believed to be the highest NIL deal that a high school player has agreed to yet.
And the guy who On3 said represented Rashada in the NIL negotiations, Michael W. Caspino, said that the quarterback “left millions on the table,” and did “not pick the highest offer.”
In fact, per On3, that highest offer came from the Florida Gators’ collective, which reportedly offered $11 million.
But Florida’s collective reportedly denied that on Sunday saying they did not have “any communications with Mr. Caspino about Jaden Rashada or any recruits.”
Whatever the situation, Rashada’s commitment is yet another apparent sign — and a big one at that — that the college football and recruiting landscapes have changed. And, at least as far as Rashada and his family appear to be concerned, that’s a good thing.
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