Kamario Taylor becomes highest-paid QB in CFB, latest rumors on new contract with Mississippi State

Mississippi State sophomore quarterback Kamario Taylor probably would have been the most coveted player in the transfer portal this offseason, but he’s not going anywhere.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that Taylor was finalizing a deal to return to Mississippi State in 2027. On3.com’s Pete Nakos and Chris Low reported that the deal is worth $7.5 million and could reach $9 million with incentives, making him the highest-paid quarterback in all of college football.

Mississippi State and Taylor confirmed he would return:

Thamel added that the timing of Taylor’s new deal will allow Bulldogs head coach Jeff Lebby to “build a recruiting class/portal around Taylor, as the school has offered Taylor an increase in his overall investment.”

“One of the things we’ve realized is the level of quality players who are intrigued to join Kamario at Mississippi State,” a source told Thamel.

Taylor played in six games this season and led the Bulldogs (4-5) to a 4-0 start, throwing for 1,460 yards, 17 touchdowns and four interceptions. It was announced last month that he was to undergo season-ending surgery following a toe injury, ending his breakout campaign.

“Over the past few weeks, I have worked every day with our medical staff and done everything possible to be on the field with my teammates,” Taylor said in a statement at the time. “Missing the remainder of the season is difficult to accept, but I know God has a plan. … My role will be different these next few weeks, but my commitment to this team will not change. I will do everything I can to help my brothers until the end.”

Taylor’s presence could help bring Mississippi State into the national spotlight in 2027, as more talented players could be poised to help lead the team to the College Football Playoff.