Syracuse quarterback Steve Angeli has announced a landmark NIL partnership with Powerade as part of the brand’s national “It Takes More” campaign. The timing and message of the deal reflect not just his on-field performance but his resilience off the field as well.

A Breakout Start Cut Short

After transferring from Notre Dame, Angeli helped transform the Syracuse offense in his first four games. He completed 62.8 % of his passes for 1,317 yards and ten touchdowns while limiting interceptions to just two. His breakout included a program-defining win over Clemson in Death Valley, their first ever in that venue. Unfortunately, his season ended when he tore his Achilles tendon during that win.

Why Powerade Chose Him

Powerade tapped Angeli for its “It Takes More” campaign because of what he represents beyond stats. The message of recovery, discipline and return fits his story perfectly: a strong start, an unexpected setback and a path toward comeback.

On the digital side, Angeli has built meaningful engagement: he has over 28,000 Instagram followers and maintains a 24.53 % engagement rate. That audience profile signals genuine connection, brands like Powerade value that level of influence when pairing athletes with broader lifestyle platforms.

Bigger Picture for Athlete Brand Partnerships

This deal highlights the evolving nature of athlete brand partnerships. Powerade’s “It Takes More” campaign includes more than 35 college athletes and features on-campus activations, hydration station events and athlete appearances. Angeli joins fellow signees from schools like LSU, Georgia and Iowa.

The inclusion of quarterbacks in this campaign underscores how partnerships in football are expanding beyond uniform patches and game-night highlights into integrated lifestyle and performance narratives.

Looking Ahead

While the injury ended his season early, Angeli’s commercial momentum is just beginning. His alignment with Powerade offers a blueprint for how college athletes can turn adversity into brand strength. As he recovers and returns, his tagline “Rest. Refocus. Rise Stronger” will be both personal and promotional, reminding fans and brands alike that his story is far from over.