Nike adds eight College Football stars to NIL roster before 2026 season
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Nike adds eight College Football stars to NIL roster before 2026 season originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Nike announced the next lineup of college football stars the company is partnering with ahead of the 2026 season. The "elite eight" players are among some of the best in the sport. The NIL deals with Nike go above and beyond with signature products and media placements.
The list is headlined by Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, who fought the NCAA for an extra year of eligibility. His teammate, running back Kewan Lacy, also made the cut. The Rebels will be looking for a repeat run in the College Football Playoff.
Texas receiver Cam Coleman is there as well. The Longhorns' top transfer from Auburn will be ready to make an impression as a go-to target for Arch Manning. His newest teammate, edge rusher Colin Simmons, is on the list as well.
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore put off his NFL dreams to run it back in Eugene. He's the only one on the list from Nike’s backyard, giving a clear indication of the belief Dan Lanning has in his QB1.
LSU tight end Trey’Dez Green joins a five-star freshmen in Vanderbilt quarterback Jared Curtis and Ohio State receiver Chris Henry Jr to round out the group of eight.
"Nike leverages the full weight of the brand to provide unparalleled partnerships with athletes across its football roster — giving them tools for long-term success across sport, business and culture,” Nike’s press release read. “Nike’s NIL partnerships also extend to athlete-centered design and innovation, as well as support for athletes in their pursuit to stand for something bigger.”
The SEC-heavy list features projected first-rounders and potential Heisman Trophy candidates. Nike is making moves that appeal to the up-and-coming generation of athletes.
“Nike’s football roster has always been defined by the athletes who are shaping where the game goes next,” Nike executive vice president of global sports marketing Ann Miller said in a release Thursday. “These signings reflect our commitment to serving the best football talent at every level with the support, innovation and partnership they need to reach their full potential on the field and away from the game.”
These eight hit the first stop with Nike on their respective journeys. The same as Saquon Barkley, Ja’Marr Chase, Jayden Daniels, Derrick Henry and others have made and are now in the midst of successful NFL careers.
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