AUSTIN, TX – In one of the most dramatic moves of the 2026 college football offseason, Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone has entered the NCAA transfer portal and committed to the rival Oklahoma Sooners, reportedly securing an $800,000 name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal—double what Texas had offered.
Livingstone, who was quarterback Arch Manning’s roommate and one of Texas’ top offensive weapons in 2025, caught 29 passes for 516 yards and six touchdowns last season. His decision to leave Austin for Norman sent shockwaves through both programs and highlights the growing influence of NIL negotiations on player movement in college football.
According to sources close to the program, Livingstone’s departure stemmed from stalled NIL talks and concerns about his offensive role in the Longhorns’ 2026 plans. Texas reportedly offered an NIL package worth around $400,000, while Oklahoma’s collective stepped in with a deal roughly twice that amount.
“Never in a million years did I think I would be going into the portal looking for a new home,” Livingstone said in a statement shared on social media. “But I’m thankful for the opportunities ahead and excited for what’s next.”
The wideout reportedly visited Indiana during his brief time in the portal before committing to Oklahoma. His move strengthens the Sooners’ receiving corps and adds another layer of intensity to the storied Red River Rivalry, which will now feature Livingstone lining up against many of his former teammates.
Texas coaches and players expressed surprise at the transfer, noting that Livingstone had been a key contributor and locker room presence. His exit underscores the growing competition among major programs to retain top talent amid escalating NIL bidding wars.
Parker Livingstone’s transfer from Texas to Oklahoma, fueled by an $800,000 NIL deal, marks one of the biggest intra-rival moves of the offseason and highlights the evolving economics of college football.