In a landmark development for high school athletics, Faizon Brandon, a five-star quarterback committed to the University of Tennessee, has signed an exclusive, multi-year Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Leaf Trading Cards.This agreement follows a pivotal legal battle that has redefined NIL rights for public high school athletes in North Carolina.
Earlier this year, Brandon’s mother, Rolanda Brandon, filed a lawsuit against the North Carolina Board of Education and the Department of Public Instruction.The suit challenged the state’s prohibition on NIL activities for public high school athletes, a restriction that placed students like Faizon at a disadvantage compared to their counterparts in private schools, who were permitted to profit from their NIL.The lawsuit highlighted a significant opportunity presented to Faizon by a prominent national trading card company, offering a “life-changing” sum for his autograph and memorabilia rights.Due to the state’s NIL prohibition, Faizon was unable to accept this offer, prompting the legal action.
In October 2024, Wake County Superior Court Judge Graham Shirley granted a preliminary injunction in favor of the Brandons, effectively allowing public school athletes in North Carolina to engage in NIL activities.This ruling aligned the state’s policies with the majority of the country, where high school athletes are permitted to profit from their NIL without jeopardizing their athletic eligibility.
Following the court’s decision, Faizon Brandon swiftly capitalized on the newfound opportunity.On October 16, 2024, Leaf Trading Cards announced an exclusive, multi-year trading card deal with Brandon.While the exact financial terms remain undisclosed, the agreement is described as substantial, providing Faizon and his family with significant financial security.This deal positions Brandon alongside other elite high school quarterbacks who have secured similar agreements, underscoring his status as a top-tier talent.
This development marks a significant shift in the landscape of high school sports, particularly in North Carolina.The successful legal challenge and subsequent NIL agreement set a precedent for other student-athletes seeking to monetize their talents while still in high school.It also highlights the growing recognition of athletes’ rights to their own name, image, and likeness, extending beyond the collegiate level.
For the University of Tennessee, securing a commitment from a player of Brandon’s caliber, now bolstered by a major NIL deal, enhances the program’s appeal to future recruits.It demonstrates the university’s support for athletes’ entrepreneurial endeavors and its alignment with the evolving dynamics of amateur athletics.
Faizon Brandon is widely regarded as one of the nation’s top quarterback prospects in the 2026 class.His exceptional arm talent, athleticism, and on-field leadership have garnered attention from major collegiate programs nationwide.His commitment to the University of Tennessee is seen as a significant win for the Volunteers, who continue to build a competitive roster for the coming seasons.
The signing of this NIL deal not only benefits Faizon Brandon and his family but also serves as a catalyst for change in high school athletics, particularly concerning athletes’ rights to profit from their own name, image, and likeness.As more states reevaluate their policies in light of such developments, the landscape of amateur sports is poised for significant transformation, offering young athletes unprecedented opportunities to secure their financial futures while pursuing their athletic dreams.