Student Athletes With NIL Contracts Take a Stance on Layne’s Versus Cane’s Debate

With the NCAA name, image, and likeness rules now allowing student athletes to profit off of themselves, many have turned to local brands looking to make money from endorsement deals. For some, this has meant taking an official stance on the Layne’s vs. Cane’s debate.

The Mugdown spoke to one football player who entered a contract with Layne’s to promote what he believed was the superior product. “As a College Station native, I understand the value of supporting local businesses,” said junior Anthony Jost. “By endorsing Layne’s as the better drive-through chicken restaurant, I can work with a company I really believe in.” While Jost is most certainly being paid for his opinion, he insisted that Layne’s “Soon to be Famous Chicken” is the correct side of the debate.

Athletes outside of the football program have also embraced their ability to make money from brand deals. “With the new name, imagine, and likeness rules, I can finally benefit from endorsing what I know is the best place for fried chicken in College Station,” said sprinter Erin Saven. “I’ve always loved Raising Cane’s, but now I can make money by telling the world that.”

As more athletes turn to brand deals to financially benefit from their name, image, and likeness, competition for fried chicken endorsements may build.

 

— Hannibal Lechner