Taulia Tagovailoa's College Journey: From Alabama to Maryland and Beyond

Taulia Tagovailoa, who spent four years as the quarterback for the University of Maryland, nearly transferred to Auburn for his final season. Initially starting his college career at the University of Alabama in 2019, Tagovailoa found himself third on the depth chart behind his brother Tua and Mac Jones, prompting his decision to move to Maryland to pursue a more prominent role. During his time with the Terrapins, Tagovailoa achieved significant success, culminating in setting the Big Ten record for all-time passing yards in 2023. However, as he contemplated his final season, he received a lucrative offer from Auburn, which included a $1.5 million NIL deal aimed at enticing him back to the SEC. Despite the attractive offer, Tua Tagovailoa, who won a National Championship with Alabama in 2017, advised his brother against the move, emphasizing their family's strong ties to Alabama. "We’re an Alabama family," Tua reportedly told Taulia, reinforcing the notion that he should remain loyal to his roots. Ultimately, Maryland's head coach Mike Locksley and athletic director Damon Evans worked to secure a six-figure NIL package that helped persuade Tagovailoa to stay with the Terrapins. Although he went undrafted in 2024, Tagovailoa has since signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League, marking the next chapter in his football career.