News has rapidly spread across social media platforms claiming that Florida State Seminoles quarterback Thomas Castellanos has donated his entire $12.9 million bonus and sponsorship earnings to support homeless shelter initiatives. While the story has sparked widespread admiration and praise, as of now, there is no confirmation from any credible news source or official outlet verifying this remarkable act of generosity.
Thomas Castellanos, who transferred to Florida State from Boston College and has quickly become a dynamic presence on the field, is indeed gaining national attention. However, no verifiable reports from established sports media networks, Florida State University, or reputable charity organizations have confirmed this $12.9 million donation.
A donation of this magnitude would be highly newsworthy and almost certainly documented by major outlets such as ESPN, Sports Illustrated, or CNN. Additionally, charitable organizations receiving such a contribution typically release statements or hold press events to acknowledge the support—none of which have occurred in connection to this claim.
It’s worth noting that while collegiate athletes can now earn income through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements, a sum as large as $12.9 million would place Castellanos among the top-earning college athletes nationwide—on par with figures seen only in elite NIL contracts, often accompanied by major brand endorsements.
The story may have originated from a satirical or unverified source and gained traction through viral posts and retweets, which often blur the line between fact and fiction. While it is entirely possible that Castellanos supports charitable efforts in some capacity, this specific claim remains unsubstantiated.
In contrast, philanthropy in the sports world is not unheard of.
Recent examples include billionaire Tom Golisano’s confirmed $85 million donation to nonprofits in Southwest Florida. Such examples set a precedent for impactful giving, but they are typically well-documented.
Until official confirmation is provided, the claim about Castellanos’ $12.9 million donation should be treated with caution. Fans and followers are encouraged to verify such stories through reliable sources before sharing or celebrating them as fact.