Nick Bosa Shocks NFL World: Rejects $305 Million NIL-Style Offer from Dallas Cowboys, Declares Loyalty to 49ers

June 27, 2025 | San Francisco, CA

By: NFL Insider Staff

In an extraordinary show of loyalty, San Francisco 49ers defensive superstar Nick Bosa has turned down a staggering $305 million NIL-style endorsement and performance-based offer from the Dallas Cowboys, choosing to remain committed to the team that drafted him in 2019 and where he has become a defensive cornerstone.

The 27-year-old reigning Defensive Player of the Year stunned fans, teammates, and analysts alike during an impromptu press conference held Friday morning at Levi’s Stadium.

“My loyalty lies with the San Francisco 49ers,” Bosa stated firmly. “This organization believed in me from day one. They gave me the opportunity to grow, to win, and to build something special. No amount of money can replace what we’ve built here.”

The Offer That Shook the League

The reported offer from the Cowboys, which was leaked late Thursday evening, included a massive blend of endorsement incentives, private equity stakes in Texas-based sports tech companies, and performance bonuses that could have made Bosa the highest-paid non-quarterback in football history.

According to sources close to the situation, the Cowboys’ front office, under owner Jerry Jones, was aggressively pushing to secure Bosa as the face of their next defensive era. The package was said to include:

• $305 million in NIL-style benefits over 6 years
• An immediate $100 million signing bonus
• Equity shares in several sports media ventures
• A guaranteed multi-platform endorsement deal with global brands headquartered in Dallas

Had Bosa accepted, the move would have redefined the boundaries of athlete compensation in the NFL — essentially mimicking NCAA NIL dynamics at the professional level, without a traditional contract trade or free agency trigger.

Why He Said No

Despite the historic nature of the offer, Bosa made it clear that money alone doesn’t determine his decisions.

“I’m a competitor, and I’m here to win Super Bowls with my brothers in San Francisco,” Bosa said. “I’m not chasing dollars — I’m chasing legacy.”

Bosa has long been a central figure in the 49ers’ elite defense and helped lead the team to multiple NFC Championship appearances and a Super Bowl berth. Known for his relentless motor, elite technique, and leadership, Bosa is the spiritual heart of a defense stacked with talent.

His relationship with head coach Kyle Shanahan, general manager John Lynch, and defensive teammates such as Fred Warner and Arik Armstead reportedly played a major role in his decision to stay.

“We’re building something historic here,” Bosa continued. “And I’m not walking away from it now.”

49ers Respond with Praise

Shortly after the press conference, the 49ers organization released a statement applauding Bosa’s loyalty and reaffirming his importance to the team.

“Nick Bosa exemplifies what it means to be a 49er — grit, excellence, and commitment to team success. We are proud to have him and will continue to support his journey toward championship greatness.” — 49ers Statement

Coach Shanahan also weighed in:

“Nick’s decision says everything you need to know about who he is. He’s not just our best pass rusher — he’s the soul of this team.”

Reactions from Around the NFL

Social media erupted with reactions from fans and NFL players alike.

• George Kittle, Bosa’s longtime teammate: “Never doubted him for a second. This man bleeds red and gold. LET’S GET THAT RING.”
• Micah Parsons, Cowboys linebacker: “Respect to Bosa for staying true to his crew. We’ll meet on the field.”
• J.J. Watt, former NFL great: “That’s legacy over luxury. Salute to Bosa. Rare breed.”

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones released a brief statement acknowledging the rejection:

“Nick Bosa is a generational talent and a man of integrity. We respect his decision and wish him continued success in San Francisco — until we meet again.”

What’s Next?

Sources say the 49ers are now preparing a contract restructuring for Bosa, adding additional incentives and longevity guarantees to reward his commitment. While no new deal has been signed yet, insiders suggest the team will ensure Bosa remains a 49er for life.

There’s also speculation that Bosa’s decision could inspire other NFL stars to turn down cash-heavy offers in favor of legacy and loyalty.

The Bigger Picture

As college-style NIL arrangements continue to blur lines at the professional level, Bosa’s firm stand could serve as a defining moment in the evolving power dynamics between players, teams, and endorsement structures.

For now, though, it’s clear: Nick Bosa is staying in San Francisco — not because he had to, but because he wanted to.

“We’ve got unfinished business here,” Bosa said, flashing a grin. “And I’m not leaving until we finish it.”