Oklahoma State players will wear QR codes on helmets directing fans to the team's NIL fund

This season Oklahoma State players will wear helmets adorned with QR codes that direct fans to a webpage where they can donate to the program's NIL collective, Cowboys coach Mike Gundy announced Tuesday. The decals will be just 1.5 square inches and won't usurp Oklahoma State's normal helmet logo.

However, the program expects tight shots on TV broadcasts to capture the QR codes, and the Cowboys plan to raise the team's NIL value through postgame photos on social media highlighting the decals, which will be located on the back of the helmets. Each QR code will feature the player's name and number in its design.

"This is a revolutionary step forward to help keep Oklahoma State football ahead of the game," Gundy said. "It gives a chance for everyday fans across the world to have a real impact when it comes to supporting the NIL efforts for Cowboy football. I'm thrilled about this opportunity for our players."

The move is emblematic of the creativity required for programs outside of the wealthiest handful to remain competitive as player compensation becomes a preeminent force in college football . And the Cowboys aren't stopping just with the helmets. They are also placing QR codes on player bag tags, throughout Boone Pickens Stadium and on the program's equipment truck.

Oklahoma State opens the season Aug. 31 against South Dakota State. The Cowboys are expected to compete for the Big 12 title as they are among the conference's leaders in returning production from a team that finished 10-4 in 2023.