ESPN BOMBSHELL: Ryan Day Rejects $7.5M Offers from Texas Tech and Florida, Reaffirms Loyalty to BYU in Stunning Move That Shakes Up College Football
In a dramatic twist that has stunned the college football world, Ohio-born head coach Ryan Day has turned down two massive $7.5 million offers from Texas Tech and the University of Florida, choosing instead to stay put and reaffirm his loyalty to BYU. The bold decision has ignited fierce debate across the sport, with some praising Day’s unwavering commitment while others question the long-term implications for his coaching trajectory.
Day, who has been associated with elite programs throughout his coaching career and is widely considered one of the brightest minds in college football, shocked insiders with his announcement earlier this week. The offers from Texas Tech and Florida were reportedly packed with incentives, high-end resources, and the chance to lead programs with deep pockets and strong national exposure. Yet, Day declined them both—something few would have predicted just weeks ago.
What’s even more surprising is that BYU isn’t typically mentioned in the same breath as the bluebloods of college football. But Day has made it clear: his commitment goes beyond prestige or financial gain. “It’s about building something meaningful,” he said in a brief but powerful statement. “BYU gave me an opportunity when others didn’t. I’m here to build a legacy, not chase checks.”
His words have struck a chord with many in the coaching community, particularly in an era where coaches frequently jump ship for better contracts or higher-profile gigs. Fans and players at BYU responded with an outpouring of support, hailing Day as a leader who values culture, loyalty, and vision over dollar signs.
Still, not everyone sees it the same way. Critics argue that turning down such lucrative offers could stunt Day’s potential to lead a national title contender or grow his brand as a head coach. Florida and Texas Tech boast competitive conferences, elite recruiting pipelines, and multimillion-dollar facilities—tools many coaches dream of having at their disposal.
However, Day’s choice might signal a broader shift in how some coaches are viewing success. For Day, it appears to be more about building a consistent winner in a program that aligns with his values, rather than hopping from school to school in pursuit of fame or fortune.
At BYU, Day has already begun to reshape the culture, emphasizing player development, discipline, and strategic toughness. With him at the helm, BYU has shown signs of turning into a formidable force in the Big 12, and his long-term vision could very well position the Cougars for sustained success in the coming years.
Whether you see him as a visionary or question his decision, one thing is clear—Ryan Day has shaken the landscape of college football. His decision to stay with BYU sends a powerful message in a sport often driven by money and prestige: sometimes, legacy matters more.
Do you think Day made the right call sticking with BYU?
