As college football recruits gear up for summer training, adidas is getting ahead—announcing its inaugural Adizero Class of 2025, a group of top-tier talents who have already signed NIL deals ahead of their collegiate careers. These aren’t just big names on paper—they’re future stars aligned with powerhouse programs and distinct brand stories.

Who Makes the Adizero Class of 2025?

• Tristen Keys (LSU commit) – A five-star wide receiver praised for his route-running and catch radius, Keys brings electrifying upside and momentum to the class.
  
  

• Tyler Atkinson – The nation’s top-ranked linebacker in the 2026 cycle, Atkinson offers defensive intensity and leadership unmatched in his class.
  
  

• Chris Henry Jr. & Kayden Dixon‑Wyatt (Ohio State commits) – Two of the Buckeyes’ most sought-after wide receiver prospects now joining adidas before stepping foot on campus.
  
  

• Madden Williams (Texas A&M commit) – A dynamic California recruit with size, speed, and star power ready for the Aggie spotlight.

  
  

• Calvin Russell III (Syracuse commit) – A fresh Orange pledge under coach Fran Brown, bringing big-play potential and regional presence to the jersey.

Breaking Down the Fit

Tristen Keys (LSU)

Keys stands out athletically and socially—prime qualities for apparel and campaign integration. Moreover, his LSU commitment offers adidas a showcase in the SEC’s spotlight.

Tyler Atkinson

A linebacker as headline-worthy as any skill player, Atkinson shifts adidas’s focus to the defensive side of the ball, serving a broadening brand purpose.

Chris Henry Jr. & Kayden Dixon-Wyatt

By partnering with two Buckeye-bound receivers, adidas cements a Big Ten footprint powerful enough to resonate with Ohio fans and beyond.

Madden Williams (Texas A&M)

Williams offers SEC glamour with Texas swagger—fast, polished, and primed for both on-field and social highlight reels.

Calvin Russell III (Syracuse)

Russell’s freshly inked commitment to Syracuse gives adidas reach in the ACC while associating the brand with under-the-radar star potential.

What This Signals in NIL Recruiting

1. Early signing momentum: Adidas is landing rising talent before their college jerseys hit the field.
   
   

2. Balanced roster: By diversifying across positions and conferences, adidas is showcasing depth and strategic vision.
   
   

3. Cross-conference footprint: Partnerships stretch from LSU and A&M in the SEC to Ohio State in the Big Ten and Syracuse in the ACC.

   
   

4. Narrative-driven marketing: Each recruit brings a story—speed, tenacity, promise, or regional flair—adidas is tapping into athletes fans will connect with beyond gameday.

The Bigger Picture

With its Adizero Class of 2025, adidas isn’t just signing recruits—it’s cultivating future brand ambassadors. Each player’s deal hints at long-term loyalty, team affiliation, and lifestyle resonance. In an evolving NIL era, this signals a brand that’s thinking beyond the season and building partnerships that last.