Penix, Odunze Become First from CFB to Sign Adidas NIL Deals

The Huskies have added two of the country's biggest companies to its NIL sponsors.

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and wide receiver Rome Odunze from the Washington Huskies became trailblazers for Adidas on Tuesday as the first football-playing student-athletes to sign name, image and likeness deals with the company.

Penix and Odunze, with coach Kalen DeBoer and multiple other members of the UW coaching staff and athletic department, announced the deal at Adidas' American corporate offices in Portland.

“I couldn’t be happier to be teaming up with the Adidas family — I’ve been in the three stripes my entire college career and their support has meant a lot to me," Penix said in a statement. "I’m excited about this unique opportunity to help further the brand and I’m appreciative of their investment in my university, my teammates and myself. ... Adidas has shown that they’re committed to student-athletes across the country and I’m thankful to be a part of their commitment.”

Penix and Odunze are projected as first-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft and join the likes of Patrick Mahomes, Trevor Lawrence and Deandre Hopkins, who also represent the Adidas brand. 

Talking about partnering with Adidas #gohuskies pic.twitter.com/mkhAvHhsAA

— Jenny Hansson (@jennyhKOIN) October 3, 2023

“It’s an honor to be joining the Adidas family as one of the brand’s first football NIL athletes,” Odunze said. “Adidas is committed to empowering me to shape my brand and my future, and I’m looking forward to inspiring the next generation of athletes.”

Penix and Odunze aren't the first Huskies to agree to a deal with Adidas. Washington softball player Kinsey Fielder signed with the company in 2022.

“Michael and Rome are two of the most promising young athletes in the country right now, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to our impressive roster,” said Rupert Campbell,  Adidas North America president. “The U.S. has the most exciting collegiate fan and student-athlete base in the world, and we’re proud to be doubling down in sports here — including our investment in NIL and university partners to assert our position as the leading sports brand in the college sports space.”

Also, longtime UW sponsor Alaska Airlines joined the list of sponsors by unveiling a new E175 aircraft painted purple and gold with Washington's logo featured prominently.

On X (formerly Twitter), Alaska pronounced itself as the official airline of Michael Penix Jr. and the University of Washington. Social media posts also suggest the group that made the trip to Oregon and the Adidas headquarters used the new plane.

Go Huskies! Behold the Purple and Gold of our special aircraft dedicated to @UW. As students begin their quarter, they can look to the sky with pride. We're proud to be the official airline partner of the @UW & @themikepenix. Keep your eyes peeled for this new E175 aircraft! pic.twitter.com/aF6eZ0uFAv

— Alaska Airlines (@AlaskaAir) October 3, 2023

As Washington's NIL collective Montlake Futures continues to grow and assist in its student-athletes finding more endorsements, these deals could signify what's possible for recruits and future standouts on the Husky roster.

With three more road games on Washington's schedule, it also appears the football team might get a lot of mileage out of its new Alaska partnership in the near future.

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