NIL deals show promise and give college athletes hope. It’s not perfect and still evolving, yet some are starting to sign deals that finally provide them with income for their formerly uncompensated labor.
Miami Hurricanes’ quarterback, D’Eriq King is one of these athletes.
When NIL deals went into effect, King was one of the first to the table. He announced he signed an appearance deal with The Wharf in Miami.
“It’s long overdue,” said King. “I’m going to be one of the first people to make money from my name, image, and likeness. We are going to show the country it’s here.”
He took it a step further by announcing that he would distribute the money to teammates whose families are hurting financially.
Today, King announced another NIL deal. This time with the NHL’s Florida Panthers.
The deal makes King the first college athlete to agree to a promotional deal with a professional sports team.
“We are thrilled to welcome D’Eriq to Panthers Territory as our first ‘FLA Athlete,” said chief strategy officer Sam Doerr in a statement. “D’Eriq is a superstar both on and off the field and we are excited to reach and engage South Florida sports fans in new ways through this collaborative partnership.”
King’s deal calls for him to make appearances at Panthers games, collaborate with the team on social media programs to boost fan engagement, create a merchandise collection and develop his own exclusive menu concession item.
D’Eriq King transferred to Miami from Houston in January of 2020. This past season he amassed 2,686 yards and 23 TDs and led the Hurricanes to an 8-2 record and a bowl game appearance.
King has quickly expanded his NIL sponsor roster. Along with The Wharf and the Panthers, he has deals with College Hunks Moving Company, Murphy Auto Group, Dreamfield, and Panini America.
