Caleb Williams’ Career Soars with United Airlines Deal

This season there have been Name Image and Likeness (NIL) deals appearing almost every day. So far fans have seen players endorse vehicles, fast food chains, skincare, and lifestyle brands. However, one of USC quarterback (QB) Caleb Williams’ newest NIL deals is among the most interesting as it benefits individuals throughout the country.

Recently, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner has been offered new endorsements left and right. Last month, the QB announced yet another NIL deal with a unique company. This time, the USC Trojans star has chosen to partner with United Airlines to promote the brand on his and the flight company’s social media.

“We just launched 127 new routes designed to get you to away games without a layover. Because rooting for your team is a nonstop gig,” United said in an X post.

The brand recently posted Williams on their Instagram.

Williams’ career continues to take flight

In 2022, United Airlines transported tons of college football fans throughout the country to their favorite games. Now included in their schedule are trips to over 15 new destinations such as Columbus, Ohio, Fayetteville, Arkansas, and South Bend, Indiana. Also added to the new United calendar are flights to several rivalry games such as USC @ Notre Dame, Tennessee @ Alabama, and LSU @ Arkansas.

“We’re committed to providing a best-in-class travel experience for our customers, whether they’re traveling around the globe, or flying to see their favorite college football team play,” said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances. “We’re pleased to deliver a schedule this season that makes it easy for fans to come together and support their teams on the road.”

Williams also promoted the deal on his Instagram.

Previous partners

On3 mentions that the deal isn’t shocking. The airline company and the University of Southern California previously teamed up to rename their field. In 2019, The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum became United Airlines Field.

“Last year, more than 50,000 fans flew United to some of the most iconic college football towns across the country,” according to United. “This year, the airline will continue to help fans get to games to cheer on teams including Wisconsin, USC, University of Michigan, Penn State, and more.”

“There’s nothing like the energy you get from seeing the fans in stands and hearing them cheer you on during a big rivalry game, whether that’s at home or on the road,” said Caleb Williams, USC Trojans quarterback. “I’m excited to collaborate with United Airlines to help spread the news of these special college football flights so fans from all over the country can experience that energy first-hand.”

Williams’ success continues to grow

Aside from inking over 10 NIL deals with everything from apparel to gaming to telecommunications companies, Williams has had an eventful year in terms of appearances. Not only has #13 attended the Monaco Grand Prix in May, but he also threw the starting pitch and was honored with his very own bobblehead night at Dodger Stadium, 247 Sports says. Plus, he was recently featured in the annual Heisman House advertisements.

This deal is just another example of Williams’ rise to stardom. The USC quarterback has proved his athleticism on the field but is now proving he has the personality to back up his skills off the field, as well. 

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.