LSU Tigers Captain LB West Weeks Signs $9.8 Million Agreement with Wyoming Cowboys
In a significant move for both LSU and the University of Wyoming, linebacker West Weeks, captain of the LSU Tigers football team, has officially signed a historic $9.8 million agreement to join the Wyoming Cowboys in the 2025 football season. The decision comes as part of a major strategy by Wyoming to strengthen its defense and recruit top-tier talent from across the country.
Weeks, who captained the Tigers’ defense in the 2024 season, has been a standout player in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), known for his leadership, versatility, and high football IQ. His decision to transfer to Wyoming represents one of the largest and most high-profile moves in recent college football history, highlighting the increasing financial power of college football programs outside the Power Five conferences.
A Shocking Move to Wyoming
West Weeks’ transfer to Wyoming comes as a surprise to many in the college football world. After a standout career at LSU, where he was named First-Team All-SEC in 2024 and served as one of the emotional leaders of the Tigers, Weeks seemed poised to enter the NFL Draft. However, after a series of discussions with his family and coaches, he made the unconventional choice to move to the Mountain West Conference.
“Ultimately, I wanted a fresh start, and Wyoming offered me the opportunity to showcase my skills in a new environment while still competing at a high level,” Weeks said during his signing ceremony. “This is a program on the rise, and I am excited to bring my experience and leadership to the Cowboys.”
Weeks’ decision to sign with Wyoming may be a reflection of the changing landscape of college football, where financial incentives and opportunities for success can now be found in both major and non-major conferences. The Cowboys, led by head coach Craig Bohl, have been looking to improve their defense and have aggressively pursued top talent from across the country, and they have certainly made a statement with Weeks’ commitment.
The $9.8 Million Deal
The agreement, which has a total value of $9.8 million, includes a combination of both guaranteed money and performance-based incentives. This groundbreaking deal is one of the largest ever signed by a player outside the Power Five, especially for a defensive player. The terms of the contract include:
- Base Salary: $5.5 million over the next three years, making Weeks the highest-paid player on the Cowboys roster.
- Performance Bonuses: An additional $3 million tied to individual and team performance metrics, such as total tackles, sacks, interceptions, and overall team success.
- Endorsements & NIL Deals: Weeks will also be involved in various endorsement campaigns through Wyoming’s NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) program, which could add up to another $1.3 million over the life of the contract.
His contract also includes a no-trade clause, ensuring that Weeks will remain with the Cowboys for the duration of the agreement unless he himself decides to move on. The financial package is a clear signal of Wyoming’s commitment to elevating its football program and competing at a higher level.
Wyoming’s New Defensive Leader
Wyoming’s coaching staff is enthusiastic about the addition of West Weeks. Head coach Craig Bohl praised the linebacker’s leadership skills, saying, “West is the kind of player who can change the culture of a program. Not only is he an elite talent on the field, but his leadership and work ethic will set the standard for our team moving forward.”
Weeks has made an immediate impact at LSU, where his dynamic play and strong presence in the locker room helped the Tigers secure several key victories in the 2024 season. Known for his sideline-to-sideline range and ability to read offenses, Weeks will bring a sense of stability and confidence to Wyoming’s defense.
“West’s ability to stay calm under pressure and his ability to make plays in critical moments was a key factor in his decision to join us,” Bohl continued. “His reputation as a fierce competitor precedes him, and we know that he will only elevate our defensive unit.”
In his time at LSU, Weeks accumulated over 120 tackles, 10 sacks, and 5 interceptions in just two seasons as a starter. His combination of size, speed, and intelligence made him one of the most coveted linebackers in college football. His transition to Wyoming will be one to watch, as he looks to continue his development and lead the Cowboys defense to new heights.
A New Era for Wyoming Football
The acquisition of West Weeks marks the start of a new era for Wyoming football. In recent years, the program has made significant strides in recruiting and developing talent, and with the signing of a player of Weeks’ caliber, the Cowboys are positioning themselves as a potential contender in the Mountain West.
“We’re thrilled to bring in a player of West Weeks’ caliber,” said Athletic Director Tom Burman. “This is a program-changing move. Not only is West one of the most talented players in the nation, but his commitment to Wyoming shows just how far this program has come in terms of competitiveness and the resources we can offer our players.”
The contract could also have long-term implications for college football as a whole. With NIL deals and financial incentives playing an increasingly prominent role in player recruitment and retention, Weeks’ decision to sign such a large deal outside of the Power Five conferences signals a shift toward greater financial equality among college football programs. It also raises the stakes for schools looking to compete in the ever-evolving landscape of college sports.
A Path to the NFL
Despite his shift to Wyoming, Weeks has not ruled out a future in the NFL. His performance in the Mountain West Conference could serve as a platform to showcase his skills to NFL scouts. The move could allow him more exposure, particularly as Wyoming is expected to play several high-profile games during the upcoming season.
“I’m focused on winning and helping this team succeed,” said Weeks. “If the NFL comes knocking, that’s something I’ll look at, but right now, my priority is leading this team to a championship.”
In addition to his on-field abilities, Weeks’ high football IQ and leadership qualities make him a highly coveted prospect for NFL teams. His experience as LSU’s defensive captain has prepared him for the leadership role he will now take on at Wyoming, where he is expected to be one of the team’s most vocal and influential players.
A Changing Landscape
The signing of West Weeks to a $9.8 million deal is emblematic of the shifting dynamics of college football. With the advent of NIL deals, players now have the ability to earn substantial amounts of money while still competing at the highest level. Weeks’ decision to join Wyoming, a program that historically has not been a major contender in the national championship race, shows that athletes are increasingly making decisions based on financial incentives, personal fit, and career growth rather than just traditional football powerhouses.
The move has drawn attention to the potential for non-Power Five programs to compete for top-tier talent. Wyoming’s strategy of targeting top players through aggressive NIL deals and creating a high-profile defense may lead other schools in the Mountain West and beyond to follow suit.
Conclusion
The signing of West Weeks is a landmark moment in the world of college football. As a leader on the field and an emerging superstar, Weeks’ move to Wyoming will undoubtedly be watched by fans, analysts, and college football enthusiasts alike. His new contract, valued at $9.8 million, sets a new precedent for what athletes can achieve within the college sports ecosystem. With his leadership and skills, Wyoming now has the chance to rise to prominence in the Mountain West and beyond, making this an exciting chapter in both the career of West Weeks and the history of Wyoming Cowboys football.
