Report: LaNorris Sellers turned down transfer portal millions to stay at South Carolina
South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers, a rising star in college football, recently made headlines by turning down a substantial two-year, $8 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer from an undisclosed school. This decision underscores his commitment to the Gamecocks and his desire to build a lasting legacy at the University of South Carolina.
Sellers, a 19-year-old redshirt sophomore from Florence, South Carolina, had a standout season in 2024. He led the Gamecocks to a 9-4 record, throwing for 2,534 yards and 18 touchdowns, while also rushing for 674 yards and seven touchdowns. Notably, he played a pivotal role in South Carolina’s 17-14 upset over rival Clemson, contributing both in the air and on the ground. His impressive performance earned him third-team All-SEC honors and solidified his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the Southeastern Conference.
Despite the allure of the $8 million NIL deal, Sellers and his family chose to remain at South Carolina. His father, Norris Sellers, emphasized that their initial goal was to attain an education and enjoy playing football, not to chase money. He stated, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” highlighting their satisfaction with the current situation and the strong relationships they’ve built in Columbia.
LaNorris echoed his father’s sentiments, expressing contentment with his current environment and the support of his family and teammates. He noted, “I’ve been playing football all my life for free. I’ve built relationships here, my family’s here, my brother’s here. There’s no reason for me to go someplace else … .”
Sellers’ decision comes amid a rapidly evolving NIL landscape in college football, where lucrative deals have become increasingly common. For instance, Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers was reportedly offered $6 million to enter the transfer portal, and Georgia’s Carson Beck signed a $4 million deal to transfer to Miami.
South Carolina has been proactive in leveraging NIL opportunities to retain talent. In December 2024, Sellers signed a record-setting NIL deal with the Gamecocks’ collective, Garnet Trust, ensuring his return for the 2025 season. Details of the agreement were not disclosed, but it was reported to be on par with top quarterback deals in college football.
Looking ahead, Sellers is poised to continue his development as a dual-threat quarterback. His decision to remain at South Carolina reflects a focus on personal growth, team success, and the pursuit of a college football legacy. With a strong supporting cast and a commitment to excellence, Sellers aims to lead the Gamecocks to new heights in the upcoming season.
