Will Levis inks innovative new NIL deal with Thoroughbred stallion
Kentucky star quarterback Will Levis came to the program from Penn State, but he’s continuing to ingratiate himself into the culture of the state. On Wednesday, the Wildcats star inked a landmark NIL deal — an endorsement agreement for War of Will, a syndicated Thoroughbred stallion standing at Claiborne Farm in Paris, Kentucky.
“We are thrilled to be the first farm to partner with a Division 1 athlete in this newly created NIL space,” stated President of Claiborne Farms Walter Hancock in a statement. “Having a star quarterback help promote one of our young and promising stallions is a new way of advertising that we think provides a perfect synergy of our brands.
“Will’s athleticism and performance displayed on the football field mirrors what we saw with War of Will on the
racetrack and the reason he is such an exciting stallion prospect.”
Moreover, both Will Levis and War of Will have enjoyed success in their respective sports. First, Levis threw for over 2,820 yards and scored 24 total touchdowns in his first season with the Wildcats. Additionally, the former Penn State quarterback earned a reputation as a hard-nosed athlete and terrific leader in Lexington last season. He capped off a tremendous season for Kentucky with a victory in the VRBO Citrus Bowl.
On the other hand, Claiborne Farm detailed the success War of Will has enjoyed in their statement.
“War of Will was a Grade 1 winner on both the turf and dirt with earnings exceeding $1.9 million,” wrote Claiborne Farm. “With his victory in the 2019 Preakness Stakes, War of Will became the first American Classic winner sired by
internationally renowned stallion. War Front, who also stands at Claiborne Farm. War of Will stands for a fee
of $25,000 and his first foals are being born this Spring.”
Continuing, Claiborne Farm stated that the deal between Levis and the Thoroughbred stallion syndicate consists of a multimedia advertising campaign that will center on the athleticism of both football players and Thoroughbred horses. Additionally, the two sides believe this will be a landmark deal, blazing a trail for future similar NIL deals in the future.
According to the On3 NIL Valuation, Levis has a valuation of $149,000. In On3’s NIL Top 100, Levis currently ranks at No. 86 — among all college football players, he’s No. 60. Finally, his per post value is high among all platforms, ranging from $722 on Instagram, $273 on Tik Tok and $203 on Twitter.
As you can see, Will Levis is adapting to his time at Kentucky well. Next season could be even better than his first was for the Wildcats.