TESTAMENT TO CHARACTER: Chase Roberts Rejects $14.2M NIL Offer from Tennessee to Stay Loyal to BYU
In a bold and humbling show of loyalty that’s captivated fans and stunned insiders, BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts has turned down a staggering $14.2 million NIL offer from the Tennessee Volunteers — a deal that would have made him one of the highest-paid college athletes in the country.
The offer, more than twice the value of his current NIL agreement with BYU, included massive endorsement opportunities, national exposure, and a fast track to superstardom in the SEC. But for Roberts, no dollar amount could outweigh the meaning of loyalty, purpose, and brotherhood in Provo.
“This wasn’t about money,” Roberts reportedly told teammates after the news broke. “It’s about who I am, where I belong, and what we’re building here.”
The news has sent shockwaves through college football — not because a top athlete received a record-breaking offer, but because he walked away from it. In an age where NIL offers often dictate loyalty, Roberts is breaking the mold.
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake praised the wideout for his integrity. “Chase isn’t just a great player — he’s a foundation guy. He believes in our mission, our team, and our fans. That’s priceless.”
Roberts, who racked up over 900 receiving yards last season and is a projected 2026 NFL Draft pick, is expected to be a cornerstone of the Cougars’ offense once again.
In a sport increasingly dominated by dollar signs, Chase Roberts just reminded the world what true character looks like. His decision isn’t just a win for BYU — it’s a win for college football.
