Penn State backup quarterback Beau Pribula departed the program before its College Football Playoff run got underway, and now it’s clear why. Pribula was searching for a starting job at a Power 4 program, which he landed at Missouri. He will likely replace Brady Cook in Eli Drinkwitz’s offense, but playing time was not the only thing he or any other player in the portal is after. Pribula also reportedly cashed in big time on the open market.
Pete Nakos of On3.com reported that Pribula received an NIL package of $1.5 million from Missouri.
NEW: Penn State transfer QB Beau Pribula signed a $1.5M NIL package with Missouri, @PeteNakos_ reports💰 https://t.co/tUfCalAPXe pic.twitter.com/o4gwsJJtEM
— On3 (@On3sports) December 23, 2024
Numbers like that are likely what motivated Pribula to make an “impossible decision,” to leave Penn State before completing the 2024 season. Other backup quarterbacks, SMU’s Preston Stone and Ohio State’s Devin Brown both entered the portal but remained with their current teams. Pribula, however, preferred to secure a starting job and a significant payday after impressing this season behind Drew Allar. After Penn State eliminated SMU, Stone quickly transferred to Northwestern, a deal that was likely in place before the CFP first-round game on Saturday.
Pribula was used primarily as a gadget quarterback in 2024, his redshirt sophomore season. However, the former three-star recruit and Pennsylvania native took over for Allar after the junior injured his knee in the first half against Wisconsin and Pribula led the Nittany Lions to a 28-13 win.
Penn State almost certainly has the NIL war chest to match a $1.5 million offer, but not for a backup. Pribula’s transfer decision came just before it was reported that Allar told the Penn State coaching staff that he intends to return for 2025, his senior year. Pribula had no path to significant playing time in Happy Valley and would have just one season of eligibility remaining to take over as the starter once Allar finally departs for the NFL.