SHOCKING NEWS: LSU Football Star Harold Perkins Jr. Turns Down Massive $7.7 Million NIL Deal from Tennessee!
In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football landscape, LSU linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. has reportedly declined a jaw-dropping $7.7 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer from the University of Tennessee. The offer, which would have more than doubled Perkins’ current NIL earnings, underscores just how valuable the star defender is—but also highlights his loyalty, long-term vision, and unwavering commitment to the LSU Tigers.
Sources close to both programs confirmed that Tennessee made a serious push to lure Perkins away from Baton Rouge with a multi-year NIL package believed to be one of the largest ever proposed to a college defensive player. The deal reportedly included endorsement opportunities, personal branding initiatives, exclusive media content rights, and equity in emerging sports marketing ventures. Yet despite the financial windfall, Perkins stood firm in his decision to remain with LSU.
Perkins, a consensus five-star recruit coming out of high school and now one of the most explosive linebackers in college football, has rapidly become the face of the Tigers’ defense. His versatility, speed, and football IQ have drawn comparisons to NFL greats, and he’s projected to be a first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Many analysts believed that an offer of this magnitude might sway even the most committed player—but Perkins appears driven by more than just money.
“I came to LSU for a reason,” Perkins reportedly told a teammate. “It’s about legacy, about winning championships, and doing it the right way. I’m building something here.”
His decision comes at a time when NIL deals are reshaping the college football world. Top programs are battling not just on the field and in recruiting wars, but also in boardrooms and marketing meetings. With millions being thrown around, players now face choices that were unheard of just a few years ago: whether to chase the biggest check, or to stay true to their original path.
In Perkins’ case, the answer was clear. LSU fans are hailing him as a hero, with social media erupting in praise and gratitude. “Harold Perkins just proved loyalty still exists,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “That’s a Tiger for life!”
From the LSU athletic department to head coach Brian Kelly, the reaction has been one of both pride and relief. “Harold is a rare leader,” Kelly said in a brief statement. “His commitment to this team and this university goes far beyond the football field. He’s the kind of player every coach dreams of.”
Behind the scenes, LSU has been proactive in maximizing Perkins’ NIL potential within NCAA guidelines, working closely with collectives and brand partners to ensure he remains fairly compensated. While his exact earnings haven’t been publicly disclosed, insiders believe he’s already bringing in high six or low seven figures annually—nowhere near the $7.7 million Tennessee offered, but still substantial.
The move also sends a powerful message across college football: not every athlete can be bought. While NIL deals have democratized player earning potential, they’ve also introduced new challenges related to team chemistry, recruitment ethics, and long-term career decisions.
Perkins’ rejection of Tennessee’s offer is likely to have ripple effects. Other programs may be more cautious in their pursuit of committed athletes, while LSU’s NIL infrastructure will likely attract more top-tier talent impressed by the balance Perkins has found between financial opportunity and personal mission.
With the 2025 college football season approaching, Perkins has his eyes set on leading LSU to a national title. He’s expected to anchor one of the top defensive units in the country and is a preseason favorite for numerous national awards, including the Butkus Award and the Bednarik.
As NIL continues to evolve, Harold Perkins Jr. has just authored one of its defining moments—a bold refusal that says more about values than value. In an era often dominated by dollar signs, his commitment to LSU is a reminder that some things still matter more than money.
And in Baton Rouge, that kind of loyalty is priceless.
