Power 4 football compensation surges amid revenue sharing reforms
General managers and agents report quarterback deals exceeding $2 million on average, while defensive tackle and edge rusher values climb, raising sustainability concerns among coaches.
Compensation for Power 4 college football starters is set to rise significantly for the 2026 season, driven by a new revenue sharing model and a condensed transfer portal window, according to a survey of general managers and agents. Quarterbacks are now expected to earn an average of over $2 million, with elite prospects commanding deals up to $8 million. Defensive tackles and edge rushers have also seen prices surge, with top players earning between $1 million and $1.5 million.
The market is characterised by high spending from SEC and Big Ten programs, which continue to outspend the Big 12 and ACC. This disparity has widened the gap between competitive tiers, with agents noting that the difference between good and elite programmes feels greater than ever. While linebackers remain the most affordable defensive position at around $600,000, specialists such as kickers are receiving six-figure deals, with some top kickers potentially worth up to $300,000.
The elimination of the spring transfer portal has created a new level of urgency for roster construction in January, leaving teams with a single window to secure talent. This shift has led to frantic bidding wars, with one agent noting that the market is high because teams have only one shot at roster completion. General managers are debating positional value daily, navigating a marketplace with little transparency and growing skepticism about reported figures.
Concerns regarding the long-term sustainability of rising NIL and revenue share costs have been voiced by coaches and general managers. Michigan coach Kyle Whittingham highlighted that with NIL rising 20 to 40 per cent annually, the current spending path is not sustainable. Despite these warnings, front office staffers and agents agree that business is booming, with many schools creatively blending revenue share with multimedia rights and apparel partner money to fund deals.
While the average starting quarterback earns over $2 million, the range varies widely based on conference and elite status. In the ACC and Big 12, quarterbacks may earn between $1 million and $2 million, whereas Big Ten and SEC starters often command $2 million to $3 million, plus additional NIL value. Running backs and wide receivers also see varied compensation, with elite backs earning up to $1 million and top wideouts potentially reaching $6 million plus endorsements.
