BREAKING: Penn State Star RB Nicholas Singleton Rejects $10.5M NIL Offers to Stay — “My Mission Is to Be a Penn State Legend”
In a bold and unprecedented show of loyalty, Nicholas Singleton, the Penn State Nittany Lions’ electrifying and nationally celebrated running back, has officially rejected a staggering $10.5 million NIL offer from powerhouse programs in Ohio and Florida, reaffirming his commitment to finishing what he started in Happy Valley.
The jaw-dropping offers reportedly included multi-year NIL contracts from Ohio State and the University of Florida, involving major brand endorsements, luxury housing stipends, and guaranteed marketing deals. Yet Singleton, already considered one of the most explosive backs in college football, chose to turn it all down — sending a thunderous message through the NCAA landscape.
> “My mission,” Singleton stated in an emotional social media post late Friday, “remains the same — to be a Penn State legend. This isn’t about money. It’s about legacy, loyalty, and finishing what we’ve built together.”
A Statement of Culture and Commitment
The decision shocked NIL insiders and college football analysts alike, many of whom predicted Singleton would chase the enormous value available in the booming name-image-likeness market. However, those closest to the program say his move is a reflection of head coach James Franklin’s deep cultural foundation and Singleton’s personal drive to deliver a national championship to Penn State.
Franklin, speaking at a press conference Saturday morning, praised Singleton’s character:
> “Nicholas isn’t just one of the best running backs in the country — he’s one of the best people I’ve ever coached. His commitment to this university, his teammates, and our fans is powerful. He’s the kind of guy you build a program around.”
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Singleton, a former five-star recruit out of Reading, Pennsylvania, rushed for 1,586 yards and 17 touchdowns in the 2024 season, earning All-American honors and helping lead the Nittany Lions to a 12-2 finish and a Rose Bowl victory. NFL scouts have already pegged him as a top-5 pick in the 2026 Draft, but for now, his focus remains locked on one thing: winning it all at Penn State.
Fan Reaction: “A Lion for Life”
The Penn State community erupted in support across social media, with hashtags like #LoyalLion, #PSULegend, and #UnfinishedBusiness trending nationwide.
Senior lineman and teammate Trevor Wallace tweeted:
> “You don’t walk away from family. Nico just showed the whole world what Penn State is about.”
Even former Penn State greats like Saquon Barkley chimed in:
> “Salute to @NicholasSingleton — real one. This is bigger than football.”
What’s Next
With Singleton returning, Penn State is instantly vaulted into 2025 national title contender conversations. Alongside a veteran offensive line, dual-threat quarterback Drew White, and a top-10 recruiting class incoming, the Nittany Lions now possess one of the most complete offensive units in college football.
Behind the scenes, insiders confirm that Penn State’s own NIL collective, Happy Valley Legacy Fund, is working to reward Singleton’s loyalty with structured, sustainable partnerships that align with his long-term values — though nothing near the flashy $10.5M he turned down.
Final Word
> “You can chase money,” Singleton said. “Or you can chase greatness. I choose Penn State.”
In an era dominated by NIL headlines and player transfers, Nicholas Singleton’s decision may be the most impactful statement yet — not just about loyalty, but about the power of tradition, team, and choosing legacy over luxury.
Filed by State College Sports Desk – July 19, 2025
