A Big 12 program is reportedly mobilizing significant fundraising efforts to keep its starting quarterback remains in the 2026 season as the transfer portal window approaches.
TCU quarterback Josh Hoover, who is already earning an estimated $2 million annually in NIL compensation, is the focus of a push by Horned Frogs supporters, according to On SI. They're trying to renegotiate and potentially increase his deal, according to reports.
The portal opens Jan. 2, putting immediate pressure on programs to retain proven starters in an increasingly competitive market.
Dykes ‘fundraising’ to keep Josh Hoover in Fort Worth
— KillerFrogs.com (TCU On SI) (@Killer_Frogs) December 12, 2025
As the transfer portal looms large, Sonny Dykes offers insight into the difficult process https://t.co/iA47IJrH9m via @ian_napetian
Hoover has been one of the Big 12’s most productive passers over the past two seasons. After taking over as TCU’s starter in 2023, he broke Trevone Boykin’s single-season school passing record in 2024 with 3,949 yards and 27 touchdowns, leading the Horned Frogs to a 9-4 finish capped by a bowl win. That total ranked seventh nationally and second in the Big 12.
In 2025, Hoover followed it up with 3,472 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, ranking among the national leaders in yardage. TCU went 8-4, including notable home conference wins over Baylor and Cincinnati.
With quarterback salaries rising across college football, TCU’s reported fundraising effort is proof of the growing reality that retaining elite talent often requires aggressive financial backing. The Horned Frogs will face No. 16 USC in the Alamo Bowl on Dec. 30.
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