Georgia quarterback Carson Beck was set to hit the NFL Draft, but now an NIL deal may be keeping him in college for one more season.
Carson Beck, Georgia’s seasoned quarterback, is making headlines once again. Initially declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft, the 23-year-old has now pivoted, deciding to explore one final season of college football via the NCAA transfer portal. This decision comes after an eventful 2024 campaign in which Beck threw for 3,485 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, completing 64.7% of his passes. His season ended abruptly in the SEC Championship game after suffering a torn UCL in his right elbow during a pivotal moment, sidelining him for Georgia’s College Football Playoff loss to Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl.
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Scouts Didn’t Like Beck’s Pro Prospects When He Declared
Beck’s journey as Georgia’s starter began after succeeding Stetson Bennett, the architect of back-to-back national championships. Over two seasons, Beck threw for 7,426 yards and 52 touchdowns while completing 68% of his passes, leading the Bulldogs to a 24–3 record. However, the 2024 season presented challenges, with his production dipping and interceptions doubling from six to 12. Once projected as a potential top pick in the NFL Draft, his injury and uneven play have altered his trajectory, pushing him to seek a new opportunity.
Carson Beck’s initial decision to declare for the NFL Draft was met with some criticism, particularly from former ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay.
“Carson Beck made a bad decision to leave early. I texted a bunch of guys in the league, GMs, former GMs, scouts. One Scout wrote back to me, one-word answer — ‘foolish,’”
NEW: Todd McShay hammered Carson Beck for leaving Georgia to enter the 2025 NFL Draft😬
“Carson Beck made a bad decision to leave early. I texted a bunch of guys in the league, GMs, former GMs, scouts. One Scout wrote back to me, one word answer — ‘foolish.’”
(via @ringer)… pic.twitter.com/44H8qxAimp
— On3 (@On3sports) December 30, 2024
A Fresh Start And New NIL Deal For Beck
The transfer portal offers a fresh start, and Beck’s talent ensures no shortage of suitors. With NIL opportunities likely to surpass a rookie NFL contract, the financial and professional incentives for a return to college are compelling. Programs such as Miami—still searching for a replacement for Cam Ward—are expected to be among the frontrunners for Beck. Ward followed a similar path, transferring from Washington State to Miami and now projected as a top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Carson Beck would have known his draft grade before declaring for the NFL draft.. That means a school has put together a large enough NIL offer to change his mind. Interesting times! https://t.co/cZ8BigVhSE
— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) January 9, 2025
“I think Carson should be remembered as a great player. I mean, he’s who got us to this point in our season,” Georgia offensive lineman Tate Ratledge said. “So him getting hurt, I don’t think should have any effect on his legacy he’s left here. I mean, he’s brought us to two SEC championships. Some could say he won us one. But, I mean, he’s had a tremendous career here. And the guy who waited his turn, had the opportunity to go anywhere in the country and play, and decided to wait his turn here.”
Georgia, meanwhile, faces significant turnover at quarterback. With Beck and Jaden Rashada entering the portal, the Bulldogs’ depth chart includes Ryan Puglisi, Ryan Montgomery, and Hezekiah Millender, none of whom have thrown a collegiate pass. Beck’s departure marks the end of an era in Athens, but it sets the stage for one more chapter in his college career—a new team, a new opportunity, and perhaps a chance to reclaim the NFL spotlight.
