Danny Stutsman, a linebacker for the Oklahoma Sooners, has made the decision to give away $50,000 of his own NIL earnings to 18 different walk-on players. This means, $2,777 will be given to each player, as a result of the fourth-year senior's generosity.
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The official Oklahoma Sooners X account showed Stutsman announcing the news to his teammates.
Our guy @FbStutsman continues to be a leader on and off the field and has generously donated a large portion of his NIL earnings back to the walk-ons who have been loyal to our program and Team 130 🙌
Subscribe to @join1oklahoma to help support more moments like this and the… pic.twitter.com/6QOkwGCC18
— Oklahoma Football (@OU_Football) August 28, 2024
"Obviously there's days where you feel like your hard work doesn't get seen, doesn't get noticed," the linebacker said. "But it really does here at Oklahoma. Every single day, we appreciate you guys. This team would be nothing without you guys. I mean that from the bottom of my heart. I truly do mean that. I feel like we have a really good connection with all of you guys."
"I just know how much you put into this program," Stutsman continued. "With that being said, I want to donate some of my NIL earnings to you guys, so you guys can have a little something else. After the meetings, this will be in your lockers."
In view of the NIL (name, image, and likeness) rule change by the NCAA in 2021, college athletes have been able to profit off their personal brand, which often includes product endorsements, commercials, social media posts, or autographs.
That is to say, Stutsman currently is sponsored by the following brands: JBL Audio, EA Sports, Snickers, Opolis Clothing Company (per On3); the 21-year-old's NIL value is currently valued at $305k.
Make Defense Great Again 💪
Stutsman-Bowman '24. The Best Ticket this fall. 🇺🇸#AllAmerican #MDGA💥https://t.co/AFp1YirX6S pic.twitter.com/TexZcUI61N
— Danny Stutsman (@FbStutsman) August 20, 2024
Stutsman returning for his senior year was actually a surprise to many, as many thought he would declare for the NFL Draft after being named first-team All-Big 12 last year.
All in all, #28 appears poised to lead the No. 16 ranked Sooners team during their first year in the SEC, and his philanthropic donation gives light to his unselfish nature, which may lead to creating more endorsement opportunities in the future.
