YOUNG GUNNER : Evangel Christian HS QB Peyton Houston Signs Multi-Year NIL Deal With Leaf Trading Cards

photo cred: Dallas Morning News

In a groundbreaking move, 15-year-old quarterback Peyton Houston from Evangel Christian Academy has secured a significant multi-year NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal with Leaf Trading Cards. This partnership marks a milestone in high school sports, as Houston becomes one of the youngest athletes to ever sign an NIL deal of this magnitude.

The Deal

Leaf Trading Cards, a company renowned for its collectible sports cards, has recognized Houston's potential and marketability and added them to their NEXTGEN Series featuring nationally ranked quarterbacks in high school or entering their freshman year in college. This deal includes the production of trading cards featuring Houston, that are available to fans and collectors now. The deal was put together and secured by Team IFA and Lionheart Sports Agency.

Peyton Houston: A Promising Talent

Peyton Houston has quickly become a notable figure in high school football. Despite his young age, he has shown remarkable skill and leadership on the field, making him a sought-after prospect that every program in the land is looking to sign. Houston's strong arm, strategic mind, escapability, and composure under pressure is what Heisman winners are made of. If you don't know what i'm talking about, please see this insane highlight reel below of a freshman Houston having his way with high school seniors, some of which are heading to D1 programs:

Impact on High School Sports

This NIL deal with Leaf Trading Cards not only benefits Houston but also sets a precedent for other young athletes who have star quality. It highlights the evolving landscape of high school sports, where student-athletes can now capitalize on their talent and marketability. Earlier this year, Nike signed a 13 year old McKenna "Mac" Whitham to an NIL deal showing age is not a hinderance to recognizing talent early. This partnership is expected to inspire other companies to explore similar agreements with promising young athletes.

GEARED UP : Oregon WR Evan Stewart Signs NIL Deal With NXTRND

photo cred: Oregon Athletics

Stewart Joins NXTRND

Evan Stewart, a highly talented wide receiver who recently transferred to the University of Oregon from Texas A&M signed an NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal with NXTRND, an emerging brand in the world of football equipment. Stewart shook up the transfer portal world back in January when he decided to transfer to Oregon after the firing of Jimbo Fisher. Stewart's decision to join the Oregon Ducks has been met with excitement, as his skills are expected to enhance Oregon’s already potent offense. During his two years at Texas A&M, Stewart recorded impressive stats, including 91 receptions for 1,163 yards and 6 touchdowns.

NXTRND: A Brand for Athletes

NXTRND, founded in 2018, is committed to creating cutting-edge football gear designed by athletes for athletes. Their product range includes mouthguards, visors, and other performance-enhancing equipment. The brand’s mission is to push boundaries and redefine standards in the sports equipment industry.

The Partnership

Stewart joins a stellar group of NXTRND ambassadors in Ohio State Safety Caleb Downs, Colorado CB Travis Hunter, and Missouri WR Luther Burden. In partnering with NXTRND, Stewart will promote the brand’s products, emphasizing their role in enhancing athletic performance. This collaboration will also see Stewart engaging with NXTRND’s community, sharing his experiences and insights on the importance of quality sports gear.

For more information on NXTRND and their products, visit NXTRND.

FUTURE SO BRIGHT : Florida SS Skylar Wallace Partners With Oakley Eyewear

photo cred: Florida Athletics

Skylar Wallace could arguably be the best player at the shortstop position in softball history. Wallace recently signed an NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal with Oakley Eyewear. Wallace surprised her teammates on camera by supplying them all with brand new shades courtesy of Oakley.

Skylar Wallace has made a significant impact on the Florida Gators softball team since transferring from Alabama. Known for her exceptional skills both offensively and defensively, Wallace’s accolades include being named to the All-SEC First Team and earning NFCA All-American honors. Her stellar performance in the 2023 season includes a .403 batting average, 18 home runs, and 63 RBIs, showcasing her prowess at the plate. Defensively, Wallace has been a rock-solid presence at shortstop, making crucial plays and leading her team with confidence.

Oakley Eyewear, renowned for its high-performance sports gear, has chosen Wallace to be the face of its latest campaign. With close to 75k followers across TikTok, Instagram, and X, Wallace is not afraid of the spotlight on or off the field. This partnership is a testament to Wallace’s growing influence in the world of collegiate sports. As part of the deal, Wallace will advertise Oakley’s products, emphasizing the importance of quality eyewear in enhancing athletic performance and protecting athletes’ vision.

What makes this deal sweeter is Wallace arranged for each of her teammates to receive a pair of Oakley glasses. The gesture not only strengthens team unity but also ensures that the entire Florida Gators softball team benefits from top-notch eye protection and performance-enhancing eyewear on the field. Shout out to Wallace for making the deal work for herself and everyone involved.