Star Ohio State defender lands five-figure NIL deal from emerging athletic brand

As the college football world prepares for Week 0 of the 2024 season this Saturday, several star players are tending to some off-the-field business first. New Ohio State Buckeyes safety Caleb Downs has inked a season-long NIL deal with the athletic brand Rhoback.

Details about his contract with the activewear company weren't fully disclosed; however, Pete Nakos of On3 Sports reported the deal could reach a value of $50,000. Excel Sports represents him.

As a SEC Freshman of the Year and a second-team All-American in his true freshman year, this ex-Alabama transfer is anticipated to be a major figure in college football this year. Ending his true freshman year with 107 total tackles, which placed him fourth in the SEC, Downs also recorded 3.5 tackles for loss and two interceptions.

As the recipient of the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year award, he made it to the first-team All-SEC as a true freshman.

This apparel brand has become a significant player during the NIL Era, adding him to its expanding roster of ambassadors, including names from Clemson like Cade Klubnik, Alabama's Jalen Milroe, and Nick Singleton from Penn State. Rhoback's recent signees include quarterbacks Quinn Ewers and Riley Leonard, who secured deals worth $100,000 last week.

Downs stands to gain a commission from the sales he generates in addition to receiving a generous amount of company merchandise. Already seen as a prime candidate for the 2026 NFL draft, it's noteworthy that Downs is the younger sibling of Josh Downs, a talent from North Carolina picked in the third round by the Indianapolis Colts.

As the Ohio State safety takes part in social media campaigns over the season, he'll be showcased donning Buckeyes-themed Rhoback apparel.

Currently, Downs's odds for the Heisman Trophy are at +15000, positioning him as an underdog. Since Travis Hunter, the last prominent dual-role player in college football was Jabrill Peppers. The Michigan standout was fifth in the Heisman vote in 2016, accumulating 72 tackles, four sacks, one interception, 170 scrimmage yards, four total touchdowns, and 570 return yards.