Vayner Sports has plunged into the sports representation industry while only operating since June of 2016. The birth of Vayner Sports occurred after a Twitter conversation between Gary Vaynerchuk, CEO of Vayner Media, and Mook Williams, NFL agent. Williams and his partner Brian Mclaughlin wanted to take the next step with their agency called Symmetry; they proposed a 4-way partnership with Gary Vaynerchuk and Gary’s brother, A.J. Vaynerchuk. The business acumen of the Vaynerchuks and representation experience of McLaughlin and Williams combined to create the agency we see in the headlines today; Vayner Sports. The young agency operates in an industry dominated by five large agencies, but has made incredible strides by embracing the strategies of a boutique agency. In this top-heavy industry, only 25 percent of the agents represents 78 percent of the players in the NFL. Vayner Sports brings a fresh and more personal experience to players, and is likely to shift the power dynamic of player representation.
In 2017, Vayner Sports had a formidable first draft class, signing Jalen Reeves-Maybin (drafted in the fourth round by the Detroit Lions). Vayner Sports also represents Matt Paradis (Denver Broncos) and Braxton Miller (Houston Texans).
In 2018, the boutique agency continues to turn heads with another strong draft class. They will represent standout cornerback Josh Jackson who will forego his senior season at Iowa. According to one of Pro Football Focus’s 2018 NFL Mock Draft, Jackson is projected to be a first round draft pick. Jackson held opposing quarterbacks to a 45.6 passer rating when targeted, allowed only 14 catches on 30 target, along with two interceptions and five pass breakups. Vayner Sports will continue to earn respect and market share in the industry. With the firepower of these four, dynamic partners, you can anticipate to see Vayner Sports represent some of the league’s superstars in years to come.
Tune in to the 2018 NFL Draft on April 26th and 27th, where Vayner Sports anticipates having eight of its clients’ names called.
Vayner Sports 2018 NFL Draft Class (via Justin J. Giangrande)
- Josh Jackson, CB, Iowa
- Christian Campbell, CB, Penn State
- D.J Reed, CB, Kansas State
- Isaac Yiadom, CB, Boston College
- Chris Jones, CB, Nebraska
- Du’ Vonta Lampkin, DT, Oklahoma
- Kyle Allen, QB, Houston
- Michael Badgley, K, Miami