Would Ohio make it to Auburn’s Payton Thorne $150 Million Deal? Details…
As of January 2025, there is no verified information indicating that Payton Thorne, Auburn University’s quarterback, has signed a $150 million deal. In fact, Thorne recently declined a substantial endorsement offer from Nike, reportedly worth $419 million, citing a desire to focus on his collegiate career and personal values.
Thorne, who transferred from Michigan State to Auburn in 2023, has been involved in several Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements. His initial NIL deal was with HopCat, a Michigan-based restaurant chain, during his tenure at Michigan State. Since joining Auburn, he has entered into partnerships with entities such as The Players Trunk, On To Victory, and EA Sports. However, the financial specifics of these deals have not been publicly disclosed.
In August 2024, Thorne announced his intention to leave the Auburn program at the end of the season. Subsequently, Auburn secured a commitment from Jaxon Miller, a five-star quarterback prospect from Texas, to succeed Thorne.
Regarding Ohio State University’s involvement, there is no publicly available information linking the institution to any financial dealings or agreements concerning Payton Thorne. Therefore, any claims about Ohio State’s participation in a $150 million deal with Thorne appear to be unfounded.
In summary, while Thorne has engaged in various NIL partnerships and made significant career decisions, there is no evidence supporting the existence of a $150 million deal involving him and Ohio State University.