6’3″, 180-pound Arizona State Lands Top WR Recruit Rejecting Lucrative NIL Offers
In a bold and refreshing move amid the NIL-era frenzy, five-star wide receiver Jamari Westbrook, a 6’3″, 180-pound phenom out of Dallas, Texas, shocked the college football world by committing to Arizona State University, turning down seven-figure NIL offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and USC.
Westbrook, ranked the No. 2 receiver in the nation and No. 9 overall prospect by 247Sports, made the announcement via a heartfelt video posted on social media Tuesday evening. Set against the backdrop of a neighborhood park where he first learned to catch a football, Jamari spoke directly to young athletes.
“This isn’t just about money,” he said. “This is about becoming a man, chasing greatness the right way, and choosing a school that believed in me before the cameras showed up.”
Sources close to the recruitment confirmed that Westbrook was offered upwards of $1.4 million in combined NIL endorsements from multiple programs, including a sportswear brand and a national car dealership chain. Yet, his decision to join Kenny Dillingham’s rising program in Tempe signals a seismic cultural statement in college football.
“He’s different,” said ASU offensive coordinator Marcus Arroyo. “Jamari’s not chasing flash—he’s chasing legacy. He told us, ‘Build me into a pro, not a brand.’ That gave us chills.”
Westbrook’s stats back up the hype. As a senior at Southridge High, he caught 88 passes for 1,472 yards and 19 touchdowns, while also rushing for 345 yards and 5 scores on end-arounds and gadget plays. His 4.38-second 40-yard dash and 42-inch vertical leap make him a nightmare for cornerbacks. But it’s his poise and maturity off the field that’s made him a national headline.
“This wasn’t a sacrifice,” his father, Tyrone Westbrook, told The Athletic. “It was a stand. My son knows his worth isn’t just tied to a check. He wants to build something, not just benefit from what’s already built.”
Arizona State’s 2025 recruiting class now surges into the national top 15 with Westbrook’s commitment, making him the highest-rated Sun Devil recruit since N’Keal Harry in 2016. Dillingham, who has aggressively pitched a vision of development, discipline, and innovation, reportedly connected with Westbrook on a deeper level.
The plan is already in motion. Westbrook will enroll early, participate in spring camp, and is expected to contend for a starting spot from day one. ASU insiders report that he has already been reviewing film with coaches and even reached out to past Sun Devil greats for advice on thriving in Tempe.
“He turned down the bag,” former NFL WR and ASU alum Brandon Aiyuk tweeted. “Respect. Now go dominate.”
For Arizona State, this isn’t just a commitment—it’s a culture shift. For Westbrook, it’s a bet on himself. In a landscape driven by instant fame and fast money, his decision is a powerful reminder that greatness still begins with grit, vision, and belief.
