The Rising Cost of College Football Talent in 2025

The financial landscape of college football has reached unprecedented heights in 2025, with Power 4 programs investing heavily in player retention and acquisitions through the transfer portal. As revenue sharing with athletes kicks off, schools are spending more than ever to secure top talent. Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with each key position, based on insights from general managers and agents across the country.

Quarterback: The Million-Dollar Question

Quarterbacks remain the most expensive position, with top-tier players commanding between $1 million and $2 million. Elite transfers like Miami’s Carson Beck and Oklahoma’s John Mateer are setting the bar even higher, with some deals surpassing $2 million. Coaches and GMs are willing to pay a premium to ensure their QB1 stays out of the transfer portal.

Running Back: A Position in Flux

Running back salaries vary widely, ranging from $300,000 to $700,000. While some agents argue that a starting RB at a serious program should earn at least $750,000, most programs are hesitant to go beyond $500,000 unless the player is exceptional. The market for RBs remains unpredictable, with many players opting to stay put rather than test the portal.

Wide Receiver: A Saturated Market

Wide receivers are in high demand, but the portal is flooded with talent. A true No. 1 receiver can cost $700,000 or more, while quality No. 2 and No. 3 receivers typically earn between $300,000 and $500,000. The sheer volume of available receivers keeps prices in check, making it a buyer’s market for programs.

Tight End: A Niche Position

Tight ends are a unique position, with salaries ranging from $200,000 to $400,000. While some programs are willing to pay up to $800,000 for all-conference caliber players, most GMs view this as overvaluing the position. Elite recruits like USC’s Mark Bowman are exceptions, with seven-figure deals already on the table.

Offensive Line: The Most Expensive Room

Offensive linemen are the highest-paid position group, with tackles commanding $500,000 to $1 million and interior linemen earning $300,000 to $700,000. Programs that fail to secure linemen early in the portal window often end up paying a premium, as desperation drives prices up.

Edge Rushers: The Next Big Spend

Edge rushers are highly valued, with top players earning between $500,000 and $1 million. Programs like Texas Tech are willing to spend big, with some deals surpassing $2 million. Proven starters are rarely available for less than $500,000, making this a competitive market.

Defensive Tackles: Premium Prices for Big Men

Defensive tackles are commanding $300,000 to $800,000, with elite players reaching $1 million. Texas Tech’s aggressive spending has set a new standard, but most programs are able to find solid players in the $300,000 to $500,000 range.

Linebackers: A Position of Disparity

Linebacker salaries vary widely, with agents pushing for $500,000 to $700,000 while GMs aim for $300,000 to $500,000. The lack of elite linebackers in the portal keeps prices relatively low, making this a cost-effective position for many programs.

Defensive Backs: High Volume, High Cost

Cornerbacks and safeties are in high demand, with top-tier players earning $500,000 to $800,000. The sheer volume of available defensive backs allows programs to find bargains, but experience comes at a premium.

Conclusion: A New Era of Spending

The 2025 offseason has seen a frenzy of spending as Power 4 programs adapt to the new financial realities of college football. While some deals may prove to be worth every penny, others will leave GMs questioning their decisions. As the season unfolds, we’ll see which investments pay off and which players live up to their price tags.