Top 2025 QB commits to Memphis over Florida after $25 million NIL deal with FedEX

Antwann Hill Jr., a four-star quarterback, epitomizes a game-changer for the Memphis Tigers, who has eagerly joined the team. Over 30 other Division 1 schools were outcompeted by Memphis to secure the 6-foot-5, 215-pound quarterback, who is poised to begin his senior year at Houston County High School.

Florida was Hill's other finalist, and now Gators head coach Billy Napier is left reeling after losing such a valued recruit as he continued to face speculation over being a lame duck entering 2024.

Antwann Hill Jr. Commits to Memphis Over Florida

In October 2023, Hill announced his commitment to Colorado after receiving offers from several top programs, including Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Florida, Florida State, and Notre Dame. However, in November 2023, Hill withdrew his commitment from Deion Sanders' program, deciding to reopen his recruitment process.

Hailing from Warner Robins, Georgia, Hill is a standout high school football player at Houston County High School. As he heads into his senior year this fall, Hill has already posted impressive stats in his junior year with 2,732 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and five interceptions.

Hill ranks as one of the top recruits for Memphis in recent history, being the 174th national prospect according to 247Sports. With a strong momentum from a 10-3 season and securing the top transfer class, the Tigers are viewed as likely contenders in the AAC in 2024 and could potentially make it to the College Football Playoff if they clinch the league title.

By the time Hill joins, the quarterback position for Memphis is expected to be up for grabs in 2025. Currently, a senior, Seth Henigan is in his fourth year leading as the quarterback, with a remarkable career total of 10,764 passing yards. Last season, he earned a spot on the all-AAC second team. Hill brings extensive experience from high school, boasting 36 starts at Houston County.

Memphis Tigers New $25 Million NIL Deal with FedEx

In April, Memphis revealed a collaboration with FedEx, committing to a $5 million yearly investment in name, image, and likeness agreements for the coming five years. This arrangement is among the most substantial corporate NIL contributions nationwide, especially within the Group of 5.

But Hill was adamant the NIL deal didn't play a major part, telling ABC24 of Memphis, "The FedEx deal, I ain't just coming in for that. I'm coming in to change the program and make the program better. I probably would have had to sit and wait for a couple of years to see the field, but with Memphis as a freshman, I could see the field, so I don't think nobody would pass up that opportunity right there."

One thing is for sure: beyond the impact this has on Memphis, that's how it's a tough outcome for Napier and the Gators. They rank just 71st on 247Sports' board and still need to add a QB to the mix. Since Hill was the top uncommitted passer left, expect Florida to look in the transfer market.