Stunning Blow: Texas Tech Raiders Quarterback Behren Morton Ends Contract with Team, Leaving Head Coach and Fans Stunned
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Texas Tech Raiders quarterback Behren Morton has abruptly ended his contract with the team, leaving both fans and coaching staff reeling just months before the 2025 season.
The announcement, confirmed late Wednesday evening by the university’s athletic department, marks a significant and unexpected shift for the Red Raiders, who had pinned much of their upcoming season’s hopes on the junior quarterback. Morton’s decision to part ways with the program is reportedly personal, though no official statement has been released by the player or his representatives.
A Promising Season Upended
Morton, who threw for over 2,800 yards and 23 touchdowns last season, had been widely viewed as a cornerstone of Texas Tech’s offense. With his strong arm, football IQ, and leadership on the field, many believed the 2025 campaign could be a breakout year—not just for Morton, but for the Raiders as a whole.
Head coach Joey McGuire expressed disbelief during a press conference Thursday morning.
“We’re shocked,” McGuire said. “Behren was more than just a player—he was a leader in the locker room, a mentor to younger guys, and a major part of our game plan moving forward. This is a tough one.”
Unanswered Questions and Speculation
The sudden nature of the departure has left many speculating about the reasons behind it. Some insiders suggest Morton may be entering the transfer portal in search of a new opportunity, possibly with a program offering higher national visibility or a stronger chance at a championship run. Others hint at personal or health-related reasons, though nothing has been confirmed.
The university has not released details regarding the termination, only stating that both parties reached a “mutual agreement.”
Fans React
Reaction from the Red Raider fanbase has been swift and emotional. Social media lit up overnight with confusion, frustration, and well-wishes for Morton. Many expressed gratitude for his contributions to the team, while others questioned what this means for Texas Tech’s prospects this fall.
“I’m heartbroken,” tweeted one fan. “We had a real shot this year, and now we’re back to square one.”
Looking Ahead
With Morton out of the picture, attention now turns to backup quarterbacks Jake Strong and Will Burns, both of whom have limited playing experience. The coaching staff is expected to reassess the depth chart in the coming weeks, possibly even looking to the transfer portal for a quick replacement.
Whether or not Morton’s departure will derail Texas Tech’s 2025 ambitions remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Red Raiders are entering uncharted territory—and they’ll have to navigate it without one of their brightest stars.