The Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) ruling by the Supreme Court in June 2021, essentially is the end of amateurism in college and high school football. Now, student-athletes can receive monetary compensation in exchange for their likeness being used, them joining a certain college, or for promoting brands. And this ruling has helped thousands of students in their quest to get through college. Most importantly, it has helped certain student-athletes make big time signings with high end brands, jumpstarting their journey in the bigger leagues.
The latest brand to make this happen is Tom Brady’s apparel line, BRADY. In December 2021, they announced their intentions of partnering with a number of student athletes, including Jackson State University Tigers’ Shedeur Sanders. Son of the NFL and MLB legend, Deion Sanders, he is one of the most influential athletes in his generation. Added to that, it seems, his mentor is none other than the great, Tom Brady himself!
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Shedeur Sanders made headlines back in 2021, when he backed out of his commitment to play for Florida Atlantic University, and joined the Tigers, where his father became head coach. It has been nothing short of a fairytale since.
Tom Brady’s apparel brand signs Shedeur Sanders as their ambassador
In the same vein, his mentor seems to have found another way to reaffirm his faith in his young protégé. With BRADY’s announcement yesterday, Shedeur Sanders became the first ever individual to sign an NIL with Tom Brady‘s brand. In their Instagram and Twitter post, they said, “We’re excited to announce that @ShedeurSanders, the star QB from Jackson State and son of football legend Deion Sanders, has officially signed with BRADY™.”
Tom Brady and Sanders seem to have great faith in each other, reflected in their statements made about each other, per BRADY’s Twitter posts.
We’re excited to announce that @ShedeurSanders, the star QB from Jackson State and son of football legend Deion Sanders, has officially signed with BRADY™. pic.twitter.com/kOsAF30nhs
— BRADY (@bradybrand) October 13, 2022
“Shedeur Sanders embodies everything we look for in a BRADY™ athlete. His character and values align perfectly with our brand. Not only is he an exceptional football player and quarterback but he is one of the most influential players of his generation” – @TomBrady pic.twitter.com/LYJ78zQ2AY
— BRADY (@bradybrand) October 13, 2022
“I’m so excited to work with the BRADY™ team. @TomBrady has been longtime mentor to me, both on and off the field and I’ve been a fan of his apparel brand since its inception, so this partnership feels like a natural next step.” – @ShedeurSanders pic.twitter.com/QN0D7LtV9W
— BRADY (@bradybrand) October 13, 2022
The NFL community was quick to respond to the announcement, many had positive words of encouragement. But a lot more were not so kind on the young star and the young brand. But the faithful were never far behind, defending the future NFL superstar.
Did he pick his dad? Has he not been balling since he started playing, thus earning his dues? Does him coming from a well-off family disqualify him from ANY deal/recognition? Do I really need to identify privilege? Too many of y'all seem to favor selective privilege. 🤦🏾♀️
— Alesha Collier (@leshac78) October 13, 2022
On his own merits. 32,000 passing yards with 30TD’s as a freshman. This year in just 5 games. pic.twitter.com/QMcGIqoqK0
— Donna Brown (@DildreadCarsta1) October 13, 2022
Literally only wants to make money off the kid
— Aaron Elbert (@AaronElbert7) October 13, 2022
Taking advantage of HBCU students without doing anything for a HBCU
— capo (@missionarymelo) October 13, 2022
As mentioned before, there is a lot of love for this new partnership out there. Predictions are, with Brady’s mentorship, Sanders could be the overall #1 pick in his draft class.
They trained together before. I believe 2 years ago
— Andre (@Andre41816616) October 13, 2022
common W from brady and sanders family
— *uɐlʎp* (@d10_2x) October 13, 2022
Watch Belichick draft this kid 😂😂😂😂
— Dan (@hyphyniner) October 13, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Not only did Brady help mentor him a bit about the position but now signed him to an NIL. Is there a spot before #1 ovr pick?
— This Guy. (@SirLowkii) October 13, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
With 205 completed passes for 1,713 yards and 17 touchdowns in just 5 games, Sanders is undoubtedly one of the best college football players around. Will he be able to showcase his magic in the NFL when he eventually gets drafted? 2024 is his predicted draft class, so it is plausible to assume, teams will be eyeing to get their hands on the lucrative first pick in 2024.
Watch This Story: Tom Brady addresses mental health concerns amidst his ongoing marital trouble with supermodel Gisele Bündchen