Do you Have ‘Big Penix Energy?’

First Round Mock’s Victoria Jonach writes about one of the more creative business deals made by 2024 NFL Draft prospect, Michael Penix Jr.

Now that teams are gearing up for the 2023-2024 season with their new players, some are looking forward to next year’s draft selections.

Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. is preparing to be a first-round pick for next year with one of his NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) deals.

The Huskies’ quarterback announced his partnership with Seattle-based clothing company, Simply Seattle in September of 2022. With the help of the company, the 23-year-old (his birthday is today) created a line of t-shirts with his signature slogan, “Big Penix Energy.”

Penix’s Profit

Most NIL deals involve a company that wants to promote their business through the use of a player’s name, image, and likeness. In exchange for the use of their face and personality, athletes usually receive financial compensation.

The partnership between Simply Seattle and Michael Penix Jr. is much different than other student-athlete endorsement deals. Sports, entertainment, and IP lawyer, Darren Heitner, commented on the deal, explaining Penix’s increased profits compared to other individuals.

“Michael Penix is receiving a 50/50 profit share on each of these $25 t-shirts. He will make more per tee sold than an athlete would earn on a $140 jersey sale through the OneTeam/Fanatics arrangement.”

Where can I buy a shirt?

The t-shirts are available on Simply Seattle’s website here in Huskies’ colors ranging in sizes Small – 4XL. The shirts are well designed, reading “Big Penix Energy,” with his jersey number, 9 represented multiple times. It substitutes the “g” in “Big” and appears in the form of roman numerals as part of his last name.

They are $24.99 + shipping, but customers can get 15% off of their order by signing up for emails and text from Simply Seattle.

In a comment under the tweet, Simply Seattle commented on the partnership. 

“We couldn’t be more excited to be working with Mike on this tee. Seattle is beyond lucky to have him in purple and gold.”

Is the message behind the slogan too much?

Penix is working to ensure the public knows his name by participating in brand deals such as this one. In the meantime, people will have to learn who he is based on his talent on the field.

Some might call the slogan offensive and sexually suggesting. However, the “Big _____ Energy” format is a relatively common catchphrase.

Penix’s shirts aren’t any different.

Clearly the world is more easily offended, and anybody who wants a tee should get it fast. It is probably just a matter of time before some individual or group shuts it down for its “inappropriate nature.”

Regardless, it is refreshing to see a student-athlete taking creative risks and pursuing financial opportunities.

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated in 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.