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Rhoback Unveils 2025 NIL Class, Featuring College Football’s Brightest Stars
Lifestyle apparel brand Rhoback is doubling down on its presence in college athletics with the announcement of its 2025 NIL Class. The group includes six of the most dynamic names in college football, blending on-field talent with off-field influence.
The launch video, presented by New York Giants QB Jameis Winston—himself a 2014 BCS National Champion and 2013 Heisman winner—spotlighted each athlete’s unique strengths in an engaging social clip. It’s a perfect example of how athlete brand partnerships are being packaged for digital-first audiences, making NIL content feel as authentic as it is aspirational.
The Faces of Rhoback’s 2025 NIL Class
Caleb Downs, Ohio State (Out2Win Score: 82)
Fresh off a national championship run, Downs has become one of the most marketable safeties in the nation. With 231K Instagram followers, his audience rivals those of top offensive stars, and his partnerships already include Beats by Dre, Nabisco, EA Sports, Crocs, and Epic Games. On the field, he finished 2024 with 48 solo tackles and two interceptions—numbers that cement his status as one of the anchors of Ohio State’s defense. Downs embodies what Rhoback seeks: consistency, excellence, and crossover appeal.
LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina (Out2Win Score: 72)
The Gamecocks’ QB is emerging as one of the most exciting dual-threat passers in the SEC. With over 2,500 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2024, Sellers is a proven playmaker. Off the field, he boasts a 23.92% engagement rate—one of the highest in the class—and has already attracted partnerships with Cheez-It and HeyDude. For Rhoback, Sellers brings charisma, energy, and an untapped upside as a leader on and off the field.
Jordan Faison, Notre Dame (Out2Win Score: 74)
Faison is a rare dual-sport athlete, splitting his time between Notre Dame football (as a wide receiver) and lacrosse, where he’s also a key offensive piece. His NIL presence is equally unique, with partnerships that include Hollister, Gatorade, and Uber. Faison carries a staggering 36.5% engagement rate on sponsored posts, highlighting his ability to authentically connect with fans across sports and brands.
Marcel Reed, Texas A&M (Out2Win Score: 69)
At quarterback for the Aggies, Reed threw for over 1,800 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2024, proving he can produce at a high level in the SEC. His Instagram following sits at 48.5K with a 12% engagement rate, and he’s added partnerships with Spotify and Fiterman Sports Group to his growing résumé. For Rhoback, Reed represents a rising star with steady growth and a modern edge.
Cade Klubnik, Clemson (Out2Win Score: 72)
Few QBs have had the breakout that Klubnik enjoyed last season—throwing for over 3,600 yards and 36 touchdowns. With 123.5K followers and an 8.93% engagement rate, his online audience is just as engaged as his fanbase at Death Valley. His partnerships with EA Sports, HeyDude, United Bank, and Giorgio Armani show the range of brands that see value in his name. Klubnik adds instant credibility to Rhoback’s NIL roster.
Nick Singleton, Penn State (Out2Win Score: 69)
Penn State’s star running back rounds out the class, carrying the ball for 1,099 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2024. His Instagram following has grown to 66.4K with a 10.08% engagement rate, and he’s already partnered with EA Sports. Singleton’s speed and power make him a weapon on the field, while his marketability continues to grow off it.
Why Rhoback’s Strategy Works
By bringing together athletes from powerhouse programs across the country, Rhoback is creating more than just a roster—it’s building a brand identity. This group represents the balance of high-level performance and digital influence that defines college football players with NIL deals in 2025.
The campaign also shows the impact of name image and likeness on college athletics, where apparel companies can leverage college athletes to drive lifestyle branding and connect with younger audiences. With Winston introducing the class and each athlete presented as both a player and personality, Rhoback has positioned itself as more than a performance brand—it’s a cultural one.
Aug 21, 2025
GARRETT ROSPARS
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