Big 12 QB Turned Down $3.5 Million Tampering Deal
A Big 12 college football quarterback turned down a $3.5 million offer to stay with Arizona after going 9-4 last season.
Fernando Mendoza declined a $3 million offer from Miami University to play for Indiana University, which ultimately paid off as he won the Heisman Trophy and led his team to a national championship before being selected first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. Not all college quarterbacks prioritize financial gain, however. Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita faced a $3.5 million tampering offer from another program during the off-season, but he chose to remain loyal to his school.
Arizona offensive coordinator Seth Doege noted that many coaches receive similar offers after a successful season, but Fifita emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with his current team. Fifita, a 190-pound, 5-foot-10 quarterback, had an impressive senior season with 3,228 yards, 29 touchdowns, and six interceptions, as well as another 216 yards and three scores on the ground.
Despite earning an NIL valuation of $2 million while at Arizona, the quarterback recognizes that he is not assured of being drafted in 2027 and values his opportunities with his current program.
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