Julian Sayin: ESPN | Is a True Freshman | How Much Does He Make?
Julian Sayin has quickly become one of college football’s most talked-about quarterbacks — a five-star recruit whose early impact at Ohio State has fans and analysts debating everything from his class status to his potential earnings. In this deep-dive article, we’ll explore: who Julian Sayin is according to ESPN, the freshman classification debate around him, and how much he’s making — both on and off the field. We’ll also touch on his stats, awards, NIL deals, and future NFL prospects.
Who Is Julian Sayin? Early Life and Recruitment
Julian Sayin was born on July 23, 2005, in Carlsbad, California, and quickly made a name for himself as one of the top high school quarterback prospects in the country. A product of Carlsbad High School, he was known for his strong arm, accuracy, leadership, and football IQ — traits that made him an elite recruit in the Class of 2024.
Sayin originally committed to Alabama, where he enrolled early in January of 2024 and began working with the Crimson Tide football program. However, after the retirement of legendary coach Nick Saban, Sayin entered the NCAA transfer portal and ultimately committed to Ohio State University just weeks later.
At the time of his recruitment and transfer, ESPN rated Sayin as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation — a five-star prospect and one of the most dynamic young quarterbacks in the 2024 class.
Julian Sayin at ESPN: What the Profile Shows
ESPN’s player profile lists Julian Sayin as a Buckeyes quarterback wearing No. 10. In their most recent update, ESPN shows him as a sophomore class quarterback with standout 2025 season stats — including 3,323 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and a 90.0 QBR, helping Ohio State compete at the highest level.
However — and this is where the confusion begins — ESPN’s classification doesn’t fully tell the story of his eligibility status, which has fueled debate among college football fans.
Is Julian Sayin a True Freshman? The Eligibility Debate
One of the most asked questions about Sayin is whether he’s a true freshman. The short answer: not exactly.
Sayin played in four games during the 2024 season. Under NCAA rules, a player may participate in up to four games without burning a year of eligibility — meaning Sayin used that rule to preserve his freshman status on the field. That technically makes him a redshirt freshman in football terms for the 2025 season.
However, academically he may be considered a sophomore, which is why ESPN and Ohio State’s roster sometimes list him that way. Fans often debate this, because he’s technically in his second year of college but still counted as having four years of football eligibility remaining.
So the answer is nuanced: he’s not a “true freshman” in the traditional sense of being in his first year overall — but he is a redshirt freshman on the field in 2025.
Breakout Season in 2025 — Sayin Steps into the Spotlight
In 2025, Sayin took over as Ohio State’s starting quarterback following the departure of Will Howard to the NFL Draft. From the opening game against a top-ranked Texas team to dominating Big Ten defenses all year, Sayin’s performance turned heads nationwide.
Here are some highlights from his 2025 season:
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3,323 passing yards, ranking among the top QBs in college football.
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31 passing touchdowns, tied for second highest in the nation.
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90.0 Total QBR, one of the best marks in the sport.
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A standout game against Wisconsin with four touchdowns and 393 yards passing.
This outstanding performance earned him recognition as one of the shortest odds for major awards like the Heisman Trophy and Maxwell Award, and ultimately he was named the 2025 Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year.
How Much Does Julian Sayin Make? NIL Deals and Market Value
One of the most intriguing aspects of modern college football is the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, which allows college athletes to profit commercially.
Although NCAA amateurism rules prohibit traditional salaries for on-field performance, players can earn money through sponsorships, endorsements, and partnerships. Sayin, given his high profile as Ohio State’s starting QB and national prominence, has been one of the top earners among college football players.
Estimated 2025 NIL Earnings
According to a report by Yahoo Sports and On3, Julian Sayin is projected to make around $1.5 million in NIL deals for the 2025 season thanks to his role and marketability — an impressive figure for any collegiate athlete.
This follows earlier estimates placing his NIL valuation at approximately $1.1 million, based on national brand interest and his Ohio State status.
By comparison, the elite NIL market also includes college players valued at multiple millions (with some quarterbacks north of $3 million), but Sayin’s earnings put him among the most financially successful players in the sport.
How Sayin’s Earnings Work Without a Salary
It’s important to understand that college football players do not receive a salary like NFL players. NCAA rules still prohibit direct pay from the university for athletic performance. Instead, Sayin earns money through:
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Signature sponsorship deals
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Trading card partnerships
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Appearances
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Collective sponsorship groups tied to Ohio State
In 2024, Sayin signed NIL deals with Panini America, a major trading card company, and The Foundation, an Ohio State connected sponsorship group.
These deals allow him to earn money while remaining eligible to play, making NIL earnings a major source of income for top collegiate players like him.
Comparison to Other Top Quarterbacks
Though Sayin’s NIL earnings are impressive, they aren’t the highest in college football. Some quarterbacks and skill players with bigger markets and brand appeal can command valuations well above $2 million.
Still, for a redshirt freshman stepping into his first full starting season, Sayin’s commercial success illustrates both his on-field performance and growing national profile.
Awards, Accolades & Future Outlook
Sayin’s 2025 season wasn’t just statistically impressive — it was also decorated with awards and national recognition:
Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year — one of college football’s most prestigious freshman awards.
Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors, reflecting his dominance in conference play.
All-America considerations, putting him on a national stage for elite honors.
Looking ahead, Sayin’s continued performance could elevate him into Heisman Trophy contention, higher NIL valuations, and eventually into strong consideration for the NFL Draft after his college career.
Julian Sayin’s NFL Potential
NFL scouts covet quarterbacks who can deliver accuracy, poise, leadership, and advanced processing — all traits Sayin has showcased. If he continues his trajectory, Sayin could project as a first-round NFL Draft pick in the future.
College performance, combined with his NIL brand growth, creates a compelling profile for pro scouts and commercial partners alike. While it’s still early in his college career, Sayin’s 2025 season laid a solid foundation for future success.
FAQs about Julian Sayin
Q: Is Julian Sayin a true freshman?
A: He’s best described as a redshirt freshman in 2025 — academically in his second year, but retaining freshman football eligibility.
Q: What school does Julian Sayin play for?
A: Sayin is the starting quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Q: How much money does Julian Sayin make?
A: While he doesn’t receive a salary from Ohio State, his NIL earnings are estimated around $1.5 million for 2025 through endorsements and partnerships.
Q: Has Julian Sayin won any awards?
A: Yes — he was named Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year and earned multiple conference and national recognitions.
Q: What are his 2025 stats?
A: Sayin threw for over 3,300 yards, 31 touchdowns, and earned a top QBR mark, showcasing elite accuracy and efficiency.
