It’s been less than 24 hours since the Florida Supreme Court ruling came into effect, allowing for collegiate athletes to be compensated based on their name, image and likeness (NIL). This monumental shift in college sports took little time for some teams, including the Miami Hurricanes, to take advantage of the opportunities.
Earlier today, Heisman-hopeful quarterback, D’Eriq King, and star safety, Bubba Bolden, were the first two athletes to sign a sponsorship deal with local moving company, College Hunks Hauling Junk. The deal was spearheaded by Hurricane alum Ahmmon Richards of Lgndary Sports, who helped the two athletes come to an agreement which can grant them up to $20,000 in compensation. This deal became public at 12:01 a.m., a mere one minute after the law came into effect. This was the first reported compensation contract for collegiate athletes, according to Darren Rovell.
As well as signing with other companies such as Wharf Miami and Murphy Auto Group, King has partnered with Florida State er quarterback, Mckenzie Milton, in creating the Dreamfield Network, a platform designed to schedule public appearances for other college athletes.
Additionally, King officially launched his website, deriqkingshop.com , which he will use to sell signed merchandise, equipment and memorabilia.
D’Eriq King is currently sitting in 7th place in odds of winning the 2021 Heisman trophy. King recently came off a season, riddled with a late season-ending injury, where he recorded over 2,500 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and 4 rushing touchdowns.