Heisman Trophy CEO outlines fan engagement and NIL strategy under new leadership
The Heisman Trophy's new CEO, Jeff Price, who joined the organization in January after a background in commercial and philanthropic roles at the PGA of America, says the organization is working to balance its legacy with modern innovation. Price has overseen the launch of the fan-voted Heisman Hopefuls program, aimed at drawing in younger audiences, and struck partnerships including one with RevelXP for Heisman weekend experiences. On the NIL front, Price said the Heisman does not aim to be a direct NIL participant, but believes that the visibility gained through the Hopefuls program can indirectly benefit athletes' NIL value. The ceremony has also been repositioned to the first weekend in December, a move made in coordination with the College Football Playoff as it continues to expand.
We're trying holistically to take Heisman from being a weekend and grants that no one really knew even happened, to being a year-round platform for good, and then engaging in ways that college football fans can be a part of it,
Why it matters
For brands: Companies interested in college football audiences may find new sponsorship and fan-package opportunities through the Heisman's expanding year-round platform.
For media: The ceremony's shift to early December and the new season-long activation model could affect how outlets schedule Heisman-related coverage.
For athletes: College football players named as Heisman Hopefuls may see indirect boosts to their NIL visibility and earning potential.
Read the full story at On3 NIL
Sources
- On3 NIL · Nick Schultz: How the Heisman is balancing tradition with innovation in NIL era
- Yahoo Sports college football: How the Heisman is balancing tradition with innovation in NIL era