You’re seriously missing out if you haven’t been paying attention to this guy. Yes, I’m talking about the former four-star athlete Brandyn Hillman, who was quite promising at defensive back and on special teams at Michigan last season. The Portsmouth, Virginia native, who originally committed to Notre Dame Fighting Irish, decommitted to join the Wolverines last fall.  

The Wolverines defensive back is one of those athletes who makes you do a double-take. Hillman has got it all—speed, agility, and that natural football IQ that makes him a force to be reckoned with on the field. As the DB turns heads with his on-field performances. Here’s a look at the NIL deals signed by Hillman and how he’s translating his gridiron momentum into off-field success.

Brandyn Hillman’s NIL deals

NIL deals have been a game-changer in college sports. For the longest time, most college football players were playing at the highest level without seeing a dime, all while universities raked in millions. But that all changed when the NCAA decided to let athletes profit from their name, image, and likeness. Cut to 2024, college stars like Brandyn Hillman can finally get a slice of the pie. The sponsors also take into consideration the influence a player has on social media. And the young Wolverines DB has already amassed 6900 followers on social media. The Gen Z defense back has also garnered more than 3.5k. 

But, what’s Brandyn Hillman’s NIL game looking like? Well, for starters, the DB is not just signing any deal that comes his way—he’s being selective, choosing partnerships that align with who he is, both as an athlete and a person. While local businesses around Michigan have been quick to team up with him, Hillman has yet to get big names in his NIL portfolio. Brandyn’s also got that hometown hero vibe going on, and he intends on using it to his advantage. Whether it’s repping a local restaurant or collaborating with a regional apparel brand, Hillman is about staying true to his roots. 

Hillman’s future at Michigan

As mentioned previously, the 6’ 1”, 210 pounds defensive back showcased promising skills on the field last season. He also racked up two tackles and earned his first varsity letter. Now with Rod Moore out out due to his ACL injury, DEs like Brandyn Hillman and Zeke Berry will have to step up to fill the void. Plus, with Sabb departing, it will either be Hillman or Berry who shall be playing a starting role for the Michigan football defense.  

Berry and Hillman have not seen a great deal of action, with both holding very few tackles and minimal playing time. It is hard to project what kind of impact they may have this year. But if there is one thing we know about the defending champion Michigan football, it is they stick to their roots: back to basics, fielding players all in on the Michigan way.