Fresno State’s dynamic senior running back Malik Sherrod has just secured what sources describe as an “extremely lucrative” NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) partnership with energy drink giant Red Bull. The deal, announced early Friday morning, marks one of the largest known NIL agreements for a player from the Mountain West Conference and signals Sherrod’s rapid rise in both athletic and commercial appeal. While exact financial details remain undisclosed, industry insiders suggest the agreement could rival those signed by high-profile athletes in Power Five programs.
Sherrod, who rushed for over 1,200 yards and scored 14 touchdowns last season, has been a cornerstone of the Bulldogs’ offense since breaking out in his sophomore year. Known for his blistering speed and ability to break tackles, the 5-foot-9, 190-pound back has been on the radar of several national brands. The Red Bull deal will include appearances in national commercials, social media campaigns, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content showing Sherrod’s training regimen and personal life off the field.
In a statement released through the university’s athletic department, Sherrod expressed his excitement for the partnership, calling it a “dream come true” to work with a brand he has admired for years. “Red Bull represents energy, ambition, and breaking limits — all values I live by on and off the field,” Sherrod said. “This is bigger than me. It’s about showing that Fresno State athletes can compete for attention and opportunities on the national stage.” The running back also noted that part of his earnings will be used to fund youth sports programs in his hometown of Inglewood, California.
Red Bull, known for aligning with extreme sports athletes and creative innovators, sees Sherrod as a fresh face to help them tap into the growing college football market. A spokesperson for the company said the partnership will highlight Sherrod’s explosive playing style and his inspiring journey from under-recruited high school athlete to one of the most dangerous running backs in the country. “Malik embodies the Red Bull spirit — he plays with fearlessness, creativity, and unmatched energy,” the spokesperson said. “We’re excited to help tell his story to the world.”
Fresno State head coach Jeff Tedford praised Sherrod for handling his growing spotlight with maturity and focus. “Malik has worked for everything he’s gotten. This NIL deal doesn’t surprise anyone in our locker room because we see the discipline he brings every single day,” Tedford remarked. “He’s not just one of the best players in the conference, he’s one of the most respected leaders on our team.” Tedford added that the deal could inspire other Fresno State athletes to aim higher in their personal branding and off-the-field ventures.
The announcement has already sparked buzz among Bulldog fans, with social media flooded by congratulatory messages and speculation about how the deal might raise the program’s profile. NIL analysts believe this could be a watershed moment for Fresno State athletics, proving that top-tier deals aren’t exclusive to athletes in traditional powerhouse schools. For Sherrod, the immediate impact could include a boost in national name recognition heading into his final college season — and possibly the upcoming NFL Draft.
As the Bulldogs prepare for their season opener against Cal Poly in two weeks, Sherrod remains focused on his football goals, stating that the Red Bull partnership won’t distract from his commitment to the team. “At the end of the day, I still have to put in the work and help us win games,” Sherrod said. “This deal is incredible, but my main job is to finish strong with my brothers here at Fresno State.” Whether he’s cutting through defenses on Saturdays or appearing in high-energy Red Bull commercials, Malik Sherrod is set to take his brand — and his game — to an entirely new level.
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