Richmond Coach Accuses Maryland Of $50K Transfer Tampering

Richmond football coach Russ Huesman has accused the University of Maryland of tampering in the transfer of kicker Sean O’Haire, alleging that Maryland offered the player $50,000 to lure him away despite O’Haire having no prior intention to transfer. O’Haire, an Ireland native who went a perfect 12-for-12 on field goals last season for Richmond, transferred to Maryland after participating in spring practices and the spring game with Richmond. Huesman expressed frustration with the current college football landscape, citing a lack of loyalty and the impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals that enable programs with deeper pockets to attract players through financial incentives. Maryland’s athletic department has declined to comment on the accusations. The transfer has raised concerns about the integrity of recruiting and transfer practices amid the evolving NIL era, with Huesman placing blame on Maryland and the player’s handlers rather than O’Haire himself. This situation highlights the challenges smaller programs face in retaining talent in a competitive and financially driven transfer environment.