D.J. Uiagalelei, Sam Howell sign NIL deals with Bojangles

Clemson quarterback D.J Uiagalelei and North Carolina’s Sam Howell signed big NIL deals with southern fried chicken joint Bojangles.

Bojangles has a couple of new spokespeople thanks to new NCAA NIL rules.

D.J. Uiagalelei of Clemson and Sam Howell of North Carolina signed partnerships with the chain specializing in cajun fried chicken, marking two of the highest-profile NIL deals yet.

The two will use their social media followings to promote the brand while also making live appearances at various events, per David M. Hale of ESPN.

Howell’s involvement with Bojangles couldn’t be more of a perfect fit. Famously, or infamously, he eats only chicken, spurning other types of meat. At the Orange Bowl, he admitted he’s never eaten a steak, cheeseburger or seafood.

Sam Howell and D.J. Uiagalelei are perfect partners for Bojangles

Basically, Howell is the walking personification of the Chick-fil-a cows urging people to “Eat Mor Chikin.” Though you aren’t likely to catch him saying nice things about that Bojangles competitor now.

As for Uiagalelei, he also makes sense as a Bojangles ambassador since he’ll be the new face of the Clemson Tigers. Bojangles is headquartered in North Carolina and has a strong presence in South Carolina as well. A presence with the two most prominent college football brands in the Carolinas is a no-brainer.

NIL rules have been in place for less than a month, but clearly, players and brands have shown a willingness to get together to benefit both sides. For the first time, players can make money off their name, image and likeness. And for the first time, brands entrenched in the college football world can use the biggest players out there to peddle their wares.

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