Kentucky's Zach Calzada Apologizes for Video Flashing $100 Bills in Response to Critic

Kentucky quarterback Zach Calzada has apologized for responding to fan criticism by sending a video flashing some of his NIL money.

Calzada wrote his apology in a note on his Instagram page (h/t Jon Hale of the Lexington Herald-Leader):

"I take full responsibility for the video I sent to someone on social media. I let my emotions get the best of me. It does not reflect the gratitude I should share as a member of the Kentucky Football team. I sincerely apologize to my teammates, coaches and our fans. I'll learn from this, do better and move forward with more respect for the opportunity I've been given."

After a fan posted a comment on social media criticizing his play this season, Calzada responded with a video in which he directly addresses the person and fans out a stack of $100 bills before spreading it out on the floor.

Hale noted Calzada didn't post the video on any public social media accounts, but is believed to have been sent directly to the fan who criticized him.

A spokesperson for Kentucky issued a statement about the situation to Hale: "Zach has taken responsibility for his actions. He has done the right thing and apologized. Now, it's time to move forward."

Calzada is now in his seventh college season after being a 3-star recruit in the 2019 class. He began his college career at Texas A&M, spending three seasons with the Aggies before transferring to Auburn in 2022.

After one season with Auburn, Calzada went to Incarnate Word to play quarterback for the Cardinals. He threw for 3,791 yards and 35 touchdowns in 2024, which reportedly earned him a $1.25 million NIL deal from Kentucky in the transfer portal.

Calzada suffered a shoulder injury in Kentucky's second game of the season on Sept. 6 against Mississippi. Cutter Boley has started six straight games for the Wildcats.