All In with Adidas: Michael Penix Jr.

Michael Penix Jr. is making big moves in the world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). Earlier this month, Adidas signed with Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. The athletic apparel and footwear brand is already partnered with the University of Washington, so endorsing Penix makes sense. 

In the last two years, the brand has made huge advancements in terms of NIL. They introduced their nationwide brand ambassador program in March of last year. Now, they are back with a goal of “investing in student-athletes who are shaping the future of sport.”

The deal also includes Washington receiver Rome Odunze. Together, the duo will participate in brand advertisements for the remainder of 2023. 

Penix receives praise

“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 Jr. stated. “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.”

“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,” Adidas North America president Rupert Campbell added. “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,” Campbell says, according to On3.

On October 5, both Penix Jr. and Odunze shared a video fulfilling their roles as promoters of the brand.

The two recounted their day as Adidas NIL partners noting perks like a car service to the brand’s headquarters in Portland, Oregon. The Huskies had lunch, participated in interviews, and helped design specialized cleats.

“Adidas has quickly shown its commitment to providing the most innovative products and experiences for our athletes. And now, with its leadership in the NIL landscape, we’re excited to see Michael and Rome represent our university as they become Adidas’ first NIL football athletes,” Jamaal Walton, University of Washington senior Associate AD for sport administration and strategic initiatives, said in a statement.

Industrious on and off the field

Regarding Penix Jr.’s performance on the field, the 23-year-old is off to a good start this season. In only six games, the Husky QB has contributed 2,301 passing yards and 20 passing touchdowns.

Not to mention, he has led his team to a 6-0 record so far this season.

Last year, the quarterback accepted the 2022 Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year. He also previously received the eighth-highest number of votes for the Heisman Trophy. This year, he has a good chance of winning the award if he continues with these impressive stats.

After Washington’s September 30 game against Arizona, Huskies’ coach Kalen DeBoer was quick to compliment the rising star. 

“He’s not this guy that’s all about himself. [Penix is] a team-first person and player in our football program, and he’s been that way since day one. He’s easy to root for, not just externally but from the inside,” DeBoer said. “The guys all believe in him and they want him to have these opportunities, these awards, these moments. They’re happy for him. He’s doing the work. He’s not an ego guy. He does all the right things. And our guys love his performance on the football field.”

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated by what kinds of activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursuing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.