Quincy Wilson Confirms Track & Field Commitment While Confessing About NCAA Future

Will Quincy Wilson chase the pro dream now, signing a lucrative contract like Gout Gout or Christian Miller? Or will he continue to play the long game — finishing high school, leveraging the NIL wave, and choosing a top college program? The answer might not be as flashy as fans expect, but it’s smarter.

Despite the buzz, Quincy Wilson isn’t about to skip steps. The 17-year-old sprint prodigy from Chesapeake isn’t chasing any purse at the expense of his education. That’s nonnegotiable. He’s made it clear: he’s finishing high school. As a second-year sophomore, he’s got two more years to map out his path, and he’s already weighing his next academic and athletic destination. And just this week, a new contender entered the race.

On June 4, Wilson posted an image on Instagram that instantly sparked interest. The caption: “thank you @avalmon @coach_siebert @dezbryant_ for coming to my house and talking about what University of Maryland has to offer #feartheturtle #umd #notcommited.” The image? Wilson at home, standing with Maryland track coaches Andrew Valmon, Danielle Siebert, and sprint legend Dezerea Bryant-Moore. Translation? Maryland is officially in the conversation — and they’re serious.

BOSTON, MA – FEBRUARY 02: Quincy Wilson of the United States runs a victory lap after winning the mens 400m in the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix on February 2, 2025, at the TRACK at new balance in Boston, MA. Wilson set a new high school national record in the indoor 400m with a time of 45.66. Photo by Erica Denhoff/Icon Sportswire TRACK & FIELD: FEB 02 New Balance Indoor Grand Prix EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon25020225

Quincy Wilson’s performance credentials are already elite. In 2024-25, Maryland’s men’s 400m recruiting standard was 47.90 seconds. Wilson ran a blistering 45.66 this year. So yeah — he clears that bar with room to spare. But this decision goes beyond time splits.

Wilson is in rare territory. No high school sprinter in recent memory has commanded this level of national attention, NIL potential, and competitive leverage. He’s already signed an NIL deal — a groundbreaking move for someone his age — and he hasn’t even chosen his next school yet. Yet the most fascinating part? The maturity in his approach. Wilson isn’t rushing to cash in or leap into a pro career just because others have. He’s playing chess, not checkers — building a foundation for longevity, not just a quick paycheck. And understandably, his list of preference includes so many names.

Quincy Wilson has been in the books of big players 

Back in April, Quincy Wilson sent the track world into a frenzy with a single Instagram post. The rising sprint sensation stood shoulder-to-shoulder with LSU assistant coach — and former NFL wide receiver — Bennie Brazell, throwing up the unmistakable “L” hand gesture. Was it a subtle commitment hint? A recruiting tease? Fans haven’t stopped speculating since.

But LSU isn’t the only program on the hunt. Texas A&M, Tennessee, and Georgia are all making aggressive plays for Wilson, each backed by powerful NIL war chests. And don’t count out the Florida Gators just yet — Wilson just wrapped up an official visit to Gainesville, where the NIL game is just as competitive and the track legacy runs deep.

Yet, amid the recruiting hype, a different conversation is emerging. During the Florida Relays, Wilson — usually untouchable down the stretch — was unexpectedly reeled in during the final leg of a race. It raised a red flag: Is the high school phenom running himself into the ground?

White House US Olympian and Paralympian Celebration Olympic Gold Medalist Quincy Wilson poses with his gold medal in front of the White House on Monday, September 30, 2024 in Washington, District of Columbia. President Biden hosted the US Olympic and Paralympic athletes for a celebration on the South Lawn. Washington District of Columbia United States Copyright: xAaronxSchwartzx

Some insiders are beginning to wonder if Wilson’s packed race schedule is taking a toll. At just 16, he’s been clocking elite-level times and racing with the intensity of a pro. A structured college program might be exactly what he needs — a place to fine-tune the mechanics, reduce the racing grind, and elevate without burning out. The talent is there. The offers are lining up. Now, the question is, where will Wilson choose to grow into the star he’s destined to be?

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