QAlabama Crimson Tide Star Keon Sabb, Who Recently Signed a $15M NIL Deal, Rejects a $25M Offer from Kentucky Wildcats: ‘My Loyalty Lies with Alabama — This Is Home.’
In a bold show of loyalty, Alabama Crimson Tide defensive standout Keon Sabb has turned down a massive $25 million NIL offer from the Kentucky Wildcats, citing his deep commitment to the Alabama program. The offer, one of the largest ever reported in college sports, was intended to lure Sabb into transferring for the 2025 season. But despite the lucrative sum, the rising star made it clear that money isn’t everything.
Sabb, who recently inked a $15 million NIL deal—already a historic milestone for the Crimson Tide—has quickly become a fan favorite for both his performance on the field and his character off it. The former four-star recruit transferred to Alabama from Michigan and made an immediate impact, quickly rising as a cornerstone of the defense and a vocal leader in the locker room. His loyalty to Alabama now cements his status as more than just a talented athlete—he is the embodiment of the Tide’s culture and spirit.
In a statement released Tuesday, Sabb addressed the swirling rumors and confirmed his decision. “I won’t lie, the offer from Kentucky was generous—more than generous. But my loyalty lies with Alabama. This is home. This is the program that believed in me, that gave me a second chance to grow and lead,” he said.
The statement resonates in a new era of college athletics, where NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals are redefining how players make career decisions. While many athletes are understandably chasing financial opportunities, Sabb’s choice sends a powerful message about commitment, culture, and trust in the team-building process.
Coach Kalen DeBoer praised Sabb’s decision, calling him “a true leader and a foundational piece for what we’re building.” Teammates also rallied behind the star defensive back, lauding his decision as one that reflects their shared mission: winning championships, not just chasing checks.
For Alabama fans, this moment reinforces the pride they have in their team and the culture that continues to attract and retain top-tier talent. As the Tide prepare for the upcoming season, they’ll do so with their defensive anchor in place, proving that sometimes, loyalty really does outweigh the price tag.
