DEAL DECLINED: Oklahoma Sooners QB John Mateer Declined a 4-year Contract With the Indiana, worth $348 Million as their new….see more..

In a surprising turn of events that has sent shockwaves across the college football and professional sports landscape, Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer has declined a massive 4-year, $348 million contract from Indiana’s professional football franchise.

The deal, reportedly structured to make Mateer one of the highest-paid players in league history, was aimed at making him the franchise quarterback and centerpiece of Indiana’s long-term rebuild. Multiple sources confirmed that the offer included $250 million in guaranteed money, extensive performance incentives, and a no-trade clause.

Who Is John Mateer?

Mateer, 21, has rapidly risen from promising recruit to national sensation. After taking over the starting job for the Sooners in 2023, Mateer dazzled fans and scouts alike with his dual-threat capabilities, poise under pressure, and unshakable leadership. His junior season in 2024 saw him throw for over 4,200 yards, rush for 800, and account for 45 total touchdowns, solidifying his status as a top NFL prospect.

Many analysts pegged him as a lock for the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft. Indiana, who holds that pick after a dismal 3-14 season, wasted no time extending their record-setting offer.

Why Decline a Deal of a Lifetime?

Mateer’s decision to turn down nearly $87 million per year has left fans stunned — but those close to him say it’s not just about money.

Sources within Mateer’s camp cite a combination of factors:

Desire to complete his senior year at Oklahoma and compete for a national championship.

Concerns about Indiana’s organizational stability, including recent coaching staff changes and front office turmoil.

A belief that he can command an even more lucrative offer after the 2025 college season, especially with new NFL media rights deals expected to inflate player salaries.

Speaking briefly to reporters after practice in Norman, Mateer said:

> “It was a tremendous honor to receive that kind of offer. But right now, my focus is on Oklahoma, my teammates, and finishing what we started. I’ve got goals here that money can’t buy.”

What This Means for Indiana

For Indiana, this is a devastating blow. The franchise had publicly pinned its hopes on landing Mateer, with social media campaigns and leaked renderings of Mateer-themed billboards already in motion.

Now, they’re left scrambling. With the draft just months away and Mateer likely returning to school, Indiana may have to reevaluate their entire draft strategy — or attempt a blockbuster trade to salvage their quarterback search.

What’s Next for Mateer?

Mateer now heads into the 2025 college football season as the face of the sport. With NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals reportedly worth over $10 million annually, he’s not exactly hurting financially. But more than that, he’s becoming a rare figure: a star athlete who’s choosing legacy over instant wealth.

The Sooners are currently preseason favorites to win the Big 12 and are top contenders for the College Football Playoff. If Mateer delivers a championship, he could go down as one of the greatest quarterbacks in Oklahoma history — and enter the NFL in 2026 as an even more coveted commodity.

—

Bottom Line:

John Mateer’s decision to decline $348 million may be unprecedented, but it’s also calculated. In a sports world often dominated by short-term thinking, Mateer is making it clear: some dreams are worth more than dollars.