Big Ten Star QB Shocks Fans with Game-Changing Adidas NIL Deal—What’s Next?
When a player like Fernando Mendoza steps into the limelight, you know something big is brewing. The Indiana quarterback, whose arm and agility have been lighting up the Big Ten this season, just inked an NIL deal with none other than Adidas — a move that’s shaking up the college football market. It’s not just any partnership; it’s a strategic alignment with one of the most iconic names in sports apparel. Mendoza’s meteoric rise — steering the Hoosiers to a flawless 12-0 record and topping national charts in touchdown passes — shows he’s not just an athlete, but a brand in the making. As his profile ascends, this pact with Adidas doesn’t just reflect his current excellence; it signals a savvy play for what’s next — the NFL stage and beyond. This deal isn’t just about a logo on a jersey, it’s about the burgeoning business of college sports and the powerful personalities who drive it.
Top Big Ten quarterback announces NIL deal with Adidas originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is adding a major national brand to his growing portfolio, announcing this week that he has signed an NIL partnership with Adidas.
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The deal places one of college football’s top players with one of the sport’s most prominent apparel companies, which already features stars such as Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Jacksonville two-way standout Travis Hunter.
Mendoza has led No. 2 Indiana to a 12-0 season. He revealed the agreement on social media. While Indiana is an Adidas school, securing Mendoza individually marks a notable win for the company as it expands its NIL reach. It also builds a relationship before heading to the NFL.
The Heisman Trophy frontrunner has completed 72% of his passes for 2,758 yards with 32 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He ranks first nationally in touchdown passes and second in quarterback rating.
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The deal comes as Mendoza’s national profile continues to climb. After transferring from California, where he threw for 4,712 yards across 19 starts, Mendoza has elevated Indiana into the Big Ten title game for the second straight year.
His NIL valuation sits at $2.6 million and is expected to rise with the Adidas partnership, according to On3.
The Hoosiers prepare to face top-ranked Ohio State on Saturday’s Big Ten title game.
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