ESPN SHOCKER: DeMarco Murray Turns Down $2 Million Michigan Offer—Chooses Loyalty to Oklahoma and Sends Powerful Message to College Football
In a college football world where coaches frequently jump ship for lucrative deals, Oklahoma Sooners running backs coach DeMarco Murray just made a bold, loyalty-first decision that’s turning heads across the nation.
According to sources, Murray rejected a massive $2 million offer from the University of Michigan—one of the most prestigious and successful programs in the sport. The Wolverines, fresh off a National Championship and looking to reload their coaching staff with high-profile talent, set their sights on Murray to take over their backfield development. The offer wasn’t just generous—it was elite, even by Power 5 standards.
But Murray’s answer? A clear and resounding no.
In a statement released by Oklahoma Athletics, Murray said:
> “The Sooners isn’t just a job—it’s a mission. The culture we’ve built here, the people, the players—this is where I want to be. The rivalry means everything, and I’d rather be on the right side of it.”
With those words, DeMarco Murray didn’t just decline an offer—he made a statement about what matters most in today’s fast-moving, money-driven landscape. Loyalty. Identity. Purpose.
For Sooner Nation, Murray’s decision is nothing short of heroic. Fans have flooded social media with messages of praise, calling the move “a throwback to real loyalty” and “the kind of heart that built Oklahoma Football.” In an era where NIL deals and coaching contracts are rewriting tradition, Murray is holding the line for something deeper.
It’s also personal. As a former Oklahoma star running back, Murray’s blood runs crimson and cream. He knows what it means to wear that jersey. He’s lived it. And now, as a coach, he’s using his platform to shape the next generation of Sooners with that same passion and pride.
Sources within the program say Murray’s decision has already fired up players and staff alike. One insider called the moment “a rallying cry”—proof that Oklahoma’s foundation remains rock solid heading into the SEC era.
On the other side, Michigan fans are stunned. Snagging a young, dynamic coach like Murray—who’s built a reputation for developing elite talent and connecting with recruits—would’ve been a major win. But instead, they witnessed what many see as a rare and powerful stand for something money can’t buy: tradition and loyalty.
Murray’s choice also fuels the fire of one of college football’s most storied rivalries. Oklahoma vs. Michigan could take on even more edge if the two giants clash in the postseason. And now, there’s an added layer of drama.
In the end, DeMarco Murray didn’t just turn down a contract—he turned up the pride. He showed college football what it means to stand for something.
And in doing so, he became even more of a legend—not just for what he did on the field, but for what he just did off it.
