Kentucky QB Zach Calzada Apologizes for Video Displaying NIL Earnings

Kentucky quarterback Zach Calzada recently issued an apology regarding a social media video that highlighted his NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) earnings. In the clip, Calzada was seen counting a large amount of cash, reportedly $100 bills, which sparked controversy among fans and critics.

Zach Calzada’s Controversial Video

The video was shared on the platform X by another user. In the footage, Calzada responded to a fan who criticized his performance on the field. He suggested the fan, who was named Garrett, focus on earning money rather than hating on him.

• Calzada: “Hey, what you need to do, Garrett, is your ass needs to stop hatin’ and go get you some money.”
• He continued: “Don’t lose count, Garrett. Straight hundreds.”

This incident prompted a statement from a Kentucky spokesperson, emphasizing that Calzada acknowledged his mistake and is ready to move forward.

Calzada’s Career Highlights

Calzada, who will celebrate his 25th birthday soon, is playing his seventh season in college football. He started the initial two games for the Wildcats in 2025, but his performance was underwhelming, completing only 47.2% of his passes for 234 yards, with no touchdowns and an interception.

Injury and Replacement

Calzada sustained a shoulder injury during a match against Ole Miss, leading to his replacement by freshman quarterback Cutter Boley. Boley has since taken over the starting role, achieving 1,376 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Previous Seasons and Achievements

Originating from Buford, Georgia, Calzada began his career at Texas A&M in 2019. His standout season came in 2021, when he stepped in for an injured teammate and led the Aggies to a notable victory over then-No. 1 Alabama. In that game, he completed 21 of 31 passes for 285 yards and three touchdowns.

After transferring to Auburn in 2022 but not playing due to shoulder surgery, he spent two seasons at Incarnate Word. There, he was recognized as the Southland Conference Newcomer of the Year in 2024, later earning Player of the Year honors after throwing for 3,744 yards, 35 touchdowns, and only 9 interceptions.

Upcoming Matchup

The Kentucky Wildcats are currently 3-5 overall and 1-5 in the SEC. They are set to face Florida, who holds a similar record of 3-5 and 2-3 in the SEC, on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET.