Michael Penix Jr. – More Than Just a Moneymaker?

Name, Image, and Likeness has taken over the college football landscape, which leads us to Washington Huskies quarterback (QB Michael Penix Jr.)

The concept has grown tremendously since its start in 2021, not only in the amount of deals, but also in regards to the level of creativity. More players than ever are beginning to represent brands that better represent their personality and interests. 

Penix is one example of a player that makes a considerable amount of money thanks to NIL. However, the QB is making it clear his focus is larger than making it big in the world of NIL.

Penix talks NIL

Penix Jr. continues to impress this season. On the field, he has led his team to an undefeated season through eight games. Off the field, he has inked deals with brands such as Beats by Dre, Adidas, and Celsius. He has even created a line of t-shirts with his signature catchphrase, “Big Penix Energy.”

“The NIL world is crazy, but it’s cool to be able to do,” Penix said in a recent interview.

The Washington QB sat down with former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst, Robert Griffin III to discuss NIL, Penix’s other interests, and his commitment to family on Griffin’s RG3 and The Ones podcast.

Desire to give back

Penix shared that the best part about NIL is the ability to give back— mainly because he knows what it is like to need a little extra help.

“I’ve had people that would give back to me, as well, growing up…Giving back is just always something that’s been in my blood.” 

Penix says his father was also heavily involved in giving back to his community, and he just wants to “follow in his footsteps.”

The Huskies’ QB is doing a solid job of this. He shared that in his free time, he enjoys volunteering with Mary’s Place, a Seattle organization that provides shelter and food to homeless individuals.

“I see it, I see the movement and see what they’re doing for these families and helping them in a positive way.”

Penix says he gets four tickets for games that he gives, along with food vouchers to families at the shelter so they get to experience the games, too.

“I had to realize that I’m more than just a football player, I have a purpose on this Earth other than that- one of them is to serve people, and that’s what I was trying to do as much as I could all throughout my journey,” Penix says about his overall career.

Penix’s point of view on TV money

Penix Jr. also gave some of his opinions on revenue sharing within the NCAA.

“As much money as the players can get, I’m for it,” he stated. 

“As far as the TV money, I really don’t have no judge in it, but as much money as the players can get based on what they deserve and what people truly from their heart feel like and understand they deserve- I feel like it’s necessary,” the QB shared.

Aside from NIL, Penix Jr. is also one of the leading candidates for the Heisman Trophy, a prestigious award in the world of college football. The annual honor goes to the player that best represents the “pursuit of excellence with integrity. Winners epitomize great ability, combined with diligence, perseverance, and hard work,” according to Bleacher Report.

Overall, Penix Jr. continues to prove he is one of the top names in college football this year. Between his work for underprivileged individuals, his commitments to multiple brands, and his support for athletes to receive appropriate compensation, Penix appears to deserve all the attention he is getting.

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.