Cameron Pritchett, one of Alabama’s premier high school football prospects, has turned down a $750,000 name, image, and likeness (NIL) offer that would have required him to relocate out of state, according to his trainer on Friday.
The 6-foot-3 sophomore edge rusher will remain at Thompson High School in Alabaster, where he’s emerged as a standout in the Class of 2027.
Since the NCAA opened the door to NIL deals in July 2021, the recruiting landscape has changed dramatically, with donor-supported collectives now securing lucrative agreements for college athletes nationwide. Around 40 states have extended NIL rights to high school athletes as well—often to help local colleges recruit elite talent—but Alabama has not followed suit.
Pritchett’s decision, initially reported by 5 Star Football Recruiting, was confirmed by his trainer Isaac Hadac, who emphasized that faith played a key role.
“He believes God will take him far in football and that the material rewards will come later,” Hadac told The Associated Press. “Staying home and trusting that process means a lot to him.”
Pritchett isn’t the first Thompson player to pass on a major NIL deal. In 2024, quarterback Trent Seaborn reportedly declined a seven-figure offer from a trading card company. Hadac credits head coach Mark Freeman for helping players keep their priorities straight.
“Coach Freeman is building a legacy at Thompson. Seaborn turned down a big NIL deal too. These kids understand that if they trust the process, everything else will fall into place,” Hadac said.
Pritchett wrapped up last season with 78 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks across 14 games. Top programs, including reigning national champion Ohio State, have already shown interest.
With plenty of time left before he makes a college decision, Pritchett is focused on creating something meaningful at Thompson.
“I’m incredibly thankful and honored just to be considered for opportunities like that,” he told 5 Star Football Recruiting. “But I believe God has a plan for my life and my football journey. I want my legacy to be built on integrity, hard work, passion, and faith—and I want to do that right here at Thompson.”
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