ESPN REPORT: Wigan Warriors Head Coach Matt Peet Shocks College Football World, Turns Down Stunning \$7.5 Million Offer from Michigan Wolverines and Notre Dame — Vows Loyalty to Wigan Warriors
In a move that has sent shockwaves through both rugby league and American college football circles, Wigan Warriors head coach Matt Peet has turned down massive offers from two of the most prestigious programs in NCAA football — the Michigan Wolverines and Notre Dame Fighting Irish — choosing instead to remain loyal to his hometown club.
According to an exclusive ESPN report, Peet was offered an eye-watering \$7.5 million deal to cross codes and lead one of the storied college football programs into a new era. The proposals, which included full control of coaching staff, performance departments, and multi-year contracts, were said to have been on the table for weeks. But in the end, Peet declined, citing his commitment to Wigan and his deep-rooted connection to the club.
“I have no plans beyond being the head coach of the Wigan Warriors,” Peet said in a statement released early Thursday. “This club is in my blood. The people here, the players, the fans — they’ve given me everything. My heart is with Wigan, and that’s not something any amount of money can change.”
The offers from Michigan and Notre Dame are believed to have stemmed from Peet’s growing international reputation as a tactical innovator and culture-builder. Since taking the reins at Wigan, Peet has revitalized the club, leading them to major trophies and restoring their status as one of rugby league’s elite. His emphasis on discipline, humility, and hard work has reportedly caught the attention of American athletic directors looking for fresh leadership models in college football.
For Peet, however, loyalty and legacy outweigh the allure of a blockbuster payday.
“I grew up watching Wigan and dreaming of being part of this club,” he said. “To walk away now — especially when we’re building something truly special — would go against everything I believe in.”
The news has been met with a mix of admiration and astonishment. Social media exploded with reactions, with fans from both sides of the Atlantic praising Peet’s decision. Many in the rugby league community see his loyalty as a rare gesture in an era where coaching contracts and allegiances can be fleeting.
Wigan Warriors chairman Ian Lenagan described Peet’s decision as “a testament to the culture we’ve built here,” adding that the club would continue to support his long-term vision.
“Matt is more than just a coach — he’s part of the soul of this club,” Lenagan said. “We’re proud of the work he’s doing and honored by his loyalty.”
Meanwhile, speculation now turns to who Michigan and Notre Dame will pursue next, as their high-profile searches for head coaches continue. But for Peet, the choice is made — and it’s one rooted in passion, purpose, and pride.
“I’ve always said Wigan is where I belong,” Peet reaffirmed. “That hasn’t changed — and it won’t.”
