Cam Ward Inks New NIL Deal Ahead of Combine

Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) is more innovative than ever. 

Players are not simply endorsing brands on social media anymore; they now involve media appearances, paid partnerships for podcasts, training programs, and more.

In keeping with the variety of formats, Miami star quarterback Cam Ward is working with New Era to launch their official 2025 NFL Scouting Combine collection.

What is New Era?

“The NFL Scouting Combine is a pivotal moment in a young athlete’s football career, and New Era is proud to be part of that moment with them,” said Tim Shanahan, Senior Director of Licensed Products at New Era Cap. “Featuring everything from caps and hoodies down to socks and slides, this collection brings fans into the offseason in style.”

Aside from baseball caps and hoodies, the collection also includes bucket hats, compression wear, shorts, headbands, and socks, each displaying the New Era logo. Each piece of apparel and headwear will also be used by NFL Combine participants, so fans can shop the looks of their favorite players.

Ward expressed his excitement regarding the deal and shared why New Era deserves this role.

“New Era understands this moment,” Ward said. “They know how much work we put in and what’s at stake for us as athletes. I’m excited to team up with New Era Cap to launch this new collection that celebrates what the NFL Combine means to both athletes and fans,” NIL Daily on SI reports.

The perfect partner

New Era originally announced a multiyear agreement with the NFL in 2024 as the official outfitter of the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. 

“New Era was born in Buffalo – a football town through and through. This game is proudly part of our hometown’s identity, and we couldn’t be more excited to deepen our relationship with the NFL,” said Chris Koch, 4th generation CEO of New Era. 

“For more than a decade, New Era Cap has been at the center of some of the biggest moments in NFL athletes’ careers – from the caps they wear when their name is called on Draft Day to the ones that top off a Super Bowl Championship. We’re excited to now have the opportunity to outfit the NFL Combine and play a part in another key milestone during athletes’ NFL journeys,” Koch said.

How Ward is working his way up

New Era didn’t announce Ward’s involvement until the end of January. He recently shared his journey and how he feels being able to declare for the draft.

“I’ve worked hard since I was a little kid, throwing footballs in plastic bags in my backyard with my dad when it rained so I was prepared for whatever obstacles came my way,” Ward said. “Now, my dream of hearing my name called in the NFL Draft is right in front of me. I’m looking forward to this next step and enjoying the moment with my family and, of course, the NFL fans. And then I really just can’t wait to get right to work with my new teammates and coaches and do everything I possibly can to help my team win a Super Bowl.”

Ward had an impressive 2024 season, contributing 4,313 yards, 39 touchdowns, and leading his team to a 10-3 season.

In addition to his partnership with New Era, Ward has also inked deals with Adidas, Bose, C4 Energy, EA Sports, and more.

Although Ward’s NIL era is coming to a close, he will likely be a huge target for regular brand deals during his rookie season in the NFL. This is especially likely if he is the first overall pick like many are predicting.

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated by the 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.