Raising Cane’s signs four UCF Football players as “Caniac Ambassadors” ahead of new University grand opening
Four UCF Football players have partnered with Raising Cane’s in a new NIL deal tied to the restaurant chain’s grand opening near campus.
Linebacker Lewis Carter, offensive lineman Preston Cushman, cornerback Antione Jackson and defensive back Braeden Marshall have all signed on as “Caniac Ambassadors” to help promote the launch of the brand-new Raising Cane’s location on University Boulevard, just a block from UCF’s main entrance. The store is set to officially open its doors on Tuesday, Dec. 9.
Each of the players posted promotional videos to their Instagram accounts on Saturday to kick off the campaign.
Raising Cane’s, known for its “One Love” chicken finger concept, has been aggressive in the college athletics NIL space in recent years, forging similar partnerships with players and programs across the country.
Cane’s is a newer name in the Central Florida market, opening locations over the past year in Winter Park, Lake Nona, Altamonte Springs, Kissimmee and International Drive. Another East Orlando location in Waterford Lakes is also in the works.
Nationally, Raising Cane’s operates more than 900 locations, making it the largest chicken tender-focused chain in the U.S. and the No. 3 overall chicken chain behind only Chick-fil-A and Popeyes.
All four players — Carter, Cushman, Jackson and Marshall — are expected to be key pieces for UCF heading into the 2026 season, with Carter anchoring the linebacker unit, Cushman returning as a veteran starter on the offensive line, and both Jackson and Marshall being veteran starters in the secondary.
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