USC's Caleb Williams Visits Nike Headquarters Ahead of NFL Draft Decision

The expected number one draft pick is exploring footwear partnerships

Although college football underclassmen have until January 15 to to file declaration papers for the 2024 NFL Draft, USC quarterback Caleb Williams - the projected No. 1 pick - is expected to forgo his final year of eligibility to take his game to the next level.

While his diverse NIL portfolio has included athleisure (Alo Yoga), sunglasses (Futuremood) and even nail polish (Faculty), he doesn't yet have a footwear deal. On the field, he's worn USC's sponsor Nike cleats but off the field, he's been spotted wearing adidas and Asics, among other brands.

The day after the college football season officially ended, Williams shared on his Instagram stories that he was at Nike's headquarters in Beaverton, OR. The largest footwear brand in the world welcomed the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner with a massive personalized sign and a collection of framed photos throughout a building's hallway.

Typically the first partnership a draft eligible athlete signs is with a footwear brand, so Williams must be starting that process ahead of his NFL Combine preparation. As the expected first selection in the 2024 Draft, he will at the top of every shoe brand's wish list.

In his two seasons at USC, Williams' robust NIL portfolio has included the likes of Dr. Pepper, Nissan, Wendy's, United Airlines, Fanatics, Neutrogena, Postmates, Athletic Brewing, CELSIUS, AT&T, Beat by Dre and PlayStation, among others.

Williams - who sat out USC's Holiday Bowl victory against Louisville - holds a myriad of school single-season records, including total offense (4,919 yards), most touchdowns scored rushing and passing (52), passing completions (333), passes attempted (500), most passing yards gained (4,537) and most touchdown passes thrown (42).