Raheim Sanders Up For a Prestigious New Prize

Arkansas running back Raheim Sanders is moving on from diapers and on to mayonnaise.

…yes, that is correct.

In February, Sanders announced his meaningful Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Huggies. Not all players are marketable for this sort of deal. However, Sanders is a perfect fit as he is familiar with the world of parenthood, thanks to his son, R.J. 

Now, instead of diapers and baby wipes, Sanders is shifting gears and has partnered up with Hellmann’s to compete in a unique contest.

The Rocket Turkey Sandwich

Sanders posted a video on September 13 explaining his nomination for the Hellmann’s Award. Sanders is up against defensive back for Alabama, Terrion Arnold, and Texas A&M quarterback Connor Weigman. The winner will be the athlete that receives the most likes for their recipe video. 

“The recipe I’m making y’all today is the ‘Rocket Turkey Sandwich.’ This means a lot to me because whenever I was in Little League, my mom would make me turkey sandwiches.“

Bread, Hellman’s turkey, cheese, bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce make up the running back’s concoction. Sanders even refers to it as “Smackables,” which he defines as something he says after he tastes something delicious.

About two weeks ago, the condiment brand introduced its first annual prize with an Instagram post.

Hellmann’s is best known for its mayonnaise. However, the brand also sells condiments such as aiolis, spreads, and drizzle sauces. Due to their popularity, Hellmann’s is the official mayonnaise of several schools including the Universities of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, and Georgia, and Texas A&M University.

Hellmann’s making waves in the NIL space

Last year, the mayonnaise brand entered the NIL world with its unique deal involving former Kentucky quarterback Will Levis. After Levis went viral for saying he adds mayonnaise to his coffee, the brand reached out to him. The interaction resulted in Levis agreeing to represent Hellmann’s in return for a lifetime supply of mayo. 

Now, the company is reigniting its participation in the area of college endorsement deals with the help of players like Sanders.

To fire up fans, Hellmann’s is hosting multiple events at stadiums throughout the fall. In addition, Hellmann’s official tailgating truck will be at six different games this season. This represents one for each of the schools it is partnered with. FOX19 has the specific dates and locations.

“The Hellmann’s Award is a one-of-a-kind recognition that fuses culinary creativity with the competitive spirit of college football and will showcase how Hellmann’s is the ultimate ingredient MVP for game day and everyday recipes,” said Chris Symmes, Marketing Director, Dressings & Condiments at Unilever Nutrition North America. 

“On the heels of our Will Levis lifetime supply contract, we’re blitzing football season head-on and championing flavor as the official mayonnaise of these top universities. May the most delicious recipe win,” FOX19 writes, quoting Symmes.

The contest will span until September 28, so make sure to check Hellmann’s Instagram to discover which athlete will win the coveted award.

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.