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Carson Beck didn't walk away from Georgia quietly. He also didn't walk into theNFL Draft like many expected. Instead, he walked straight into Miami-with a reported $4 million NIL deal waiting for him.
It's a massive bet from a program still trying to claw its way back into national relevance. And while Miami fans are hyped, not everyone in the ACC is convinced this was a smart investment.
An anonymous ACC coach recently raised eyebrows in Athlon Sports, questioning whether Beck's payday matches his on-field value. "Is Beck worth all that money? No one really knows right now," he said. "They've got a solid defense, but you can't just throw money at the problem."
Beck's arm talent has never really been the issue. At Georgia, he proved he could sling it with accuracy and composure. What scouts and insiders have debated is leadership, consistency, and the ability to elevate a locker room-intangibles that matter more when you're commanding that kind of money.
Cristobal's All-In Gamble
Head coach Mario Cristobal is banking on Beck to be the guy. Alongside him, the Hurricanes have built a loaded 2025 recruiting class-ranked No. 1 in the ACC and 15th nationally, per 247Sports. The defense is stacked with high-profile edge rushers like Hayden Lowe and Herbert Scroggins. And now, five-star running back Derrek Cooper is predicted to the offense, according to Rivals' Adam Gorney.
But some insiders wonder if Cristobal is building a team... or just collecting stars.
The same anonymous coach likened Miami's approach to the Yankees or Dodgers-flashy names, expensive moves, but questionable chemistry. "They're spending big on portal guys," he said, "but are they ignoring long-term cohesion?"
That concern isn't totally off-base. Beck enters a QB room where he's not the longest-tenured voice. The receivers are young and unproven. Sure, he'll be protected and backed by a physical run game-but leadership can't be bought, and time together on the field still matters.
If Beck thrives, he'll justify every cent. If he stumbles, $4 million starts looking a lot like a panic move.