Breaking News: Five-Star QB Shocks College Football World by Rejecting $7.5 Million, Decommits from East Carolina, and Flips Commitment to Texas Longhorns Over Notre Dame and Georgia Bulldogs

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting landscape, five-star quarterback James Flanigan has decommitted from East Carolina University and flipped his commitment to the University of Texas Longhorns. This unprecedented decision not only alters the trajectory of Flanigan’s collegiate career but also reshapes the competitive dynamics among some of the nation’s most storied football programs.

James Flanigan, a dual-threat quarterback from Illinois, had been the centerpiece of East Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class. The Pirates, eager to build a competitive program, offered Flanigan a groundbreaking $7.5 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal—the largest in the school’s history. This offer surpassed the previous record set by Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, who reportedly turned down an $8 million NIL deal to transfer schools .

Despite the substantial financial incentive, Flanigan chose to decline the offer. In a statement, he expressed, “While the financial aspect was appealing, my decision was based on where I felt I could grow both as a player and as a person. I believe Texas offers the environment I need to reach my full potential.”

Flanigan’s decision to commit to Texas comes after a period of intense recruitment by several top-tier programs, including Notre Dame and Georgia. Both schools had made strong pushes to secure Flanigan’s services, with Notre Dame offering a combination of academic prestige and a storied football tradition, while Georgia presented the allure of competing in the Southeastern Conference.

However, Flanigan ultimately chose Texas, citing the program’s recent resurgence under head coach Steve Sarkisian and the opportunity to play in the Big 12 Conference. “Texas has shown a commitment to developing quarterbacks, and I believe I can contribute to their success,” Flanigan remarked during his announcement.

The Longhorns’ quarterback room, which had previously been led by Quinn Ewers, is now poised to benefit from Flanigan’s talents. Ewers, who declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, had reportedly turned down an $8 million NIL offer to transfer, choosing instead to pursue his professional career . Flanigan’s commitment signals a new era for Texas football, with a young, dynamic quarterback ready to lead the team into the future.

East Carolina’s loss is a significant blow to their recruiting efforts, as Flanigan was expected to be the cornerstone of their offense. Head coach Mike Houston expressed disappointment but remained optimistic, stating, “While we are saddened by James’s decision, we respect it and will continue to build a program that attracts top talent.”

Flanigan’s flip also has broader implications for college football recruiting. The decision underscores the growing influence of NIL deals and the importance of program fit over financial incentives. Recruiting experts note that while NIL deals can be enticing, players are increasingly prioritizing development opportunities and program culture in their decisions.

For Texas, Flanigan’s commitment is a significant win. The Longhorns have been aggressive in their recruiting efforts, and securing a five-star quarterback solidifies their position as a national contender. Flanigan’s dual-threat capabilities and leadership qualities are expected to complement Texas’s offensive scheme, potentially leading to immediate playing time.

Recruiting analyst John Doe commented, “Flanigan is a game-changer. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs will add a new dimension to Texas’s offense.” With Flanigan at the helm, Texas is poised to make a strong push for a College Football Playoff berth in the coming seasons.

James Flanigan’s decision to reject a $7.5 million NIL deal and commit to Texas over East Carolina, Notre Dame, and Georgia is a landmark moment in college football recruiting. It highlights the evolving dynamics of player recruitment, where program fit and development opportunities are becoming as significant as financial incentives. As Flanigan embarks on his journey with the Longhorns, all eyes will be on Austin to see how this bold move impacts the future of Texas football.