Oklahoma State is making a small, but important change to its football helmets.
Three years after the inception of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals for NCAA athletes, the Cowboys have added QR codes to the back of their helmets in an effort to facilitate donations that could help lure prospective players to the program.
While fans at OSU games in 2024 won’t see them, television viewers will be able to scan the codes, which will link smartphones and other devices to the team’s overall NIL fund.
Those funds, or NIL collectives, are independent organizations that aim to raise money that can be used to pay players at a specific school. While some schools have encouraged the practice on social media and through live events like tailgate parties, Oklahoma State is trying a more direct approach.
Additionally, coach Mike Gundy’s team is placing QR codes on coasters at Boone Pickens Stadium, Oklahoma State’s renovated football field named after the late fan who donated hundreds of millions of dollars to the school during his lifetime.
This photo, provided by Oklahoma State Athletics, shows a QR code on a Cowboys helmet
Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy (pictured) called the move “a revolutionary step forward”
The QR codes will be visible on helmets for the Aug. 31 season opener against reigning FCS champion South Dakota State.
“This is a revolutionary step forward in putting Oklahoma State football at the forefront,” Gundy said. “It gives everyday fans around the world the opportunity to make a real impact when it comes to supporting the NIL efforts for Cowboy football.”
“I am extremely happy with this opportunity for our players.”
The QR codes are small – just 1.5 square inches – and contain the players’ names and numbers.
In addition to the helmets, they are also printed on the players’ luggage tags.
The Cowboys enter the 2024 season ranked 17th in the AP Top 25.
Unfortunately for Gundy & Co., rival Oklahoma has defected to the Southeastern Conference, meaning the famed Bedlam Series will be canceled this season. The Cowboys defeated the Sooners 27-24 last season.