This summer the NCAA announced Name, Image and Likeness activities would be allowed for college athletes. Basically, the NIL will allow college student-athletes to make money from their name, image and likeness.
Athletes have quickly pounced on the opportunity to profit from their labor, including El Dorado’s own Dezmon Jackson, a senior running back at Oklahoma State.
The Parkers Chapel product said he has signed with MAGZ Sports Group, which is a marketing company.
“I have a marketing team that helps me with endorsement deals that come along,” Jackson said after practice on Sunday. “They’re some guys that are apart of Oklahoma State. A few guys on our team have signed with them. Our quarterback signed with them, too. So, it’s a really cool thing.
“They reached out to me. The guy who runs it, he’s one of our media people, a photographer for Oklahoma State. They made MAGZ Sports and they invited me along. We’re about to do some amazing things.”
Jackson’s profile grew exponentially last season, when he earned first team Academic All Big 12 and honorable mention Coaches Big 12 Newcomer of the Year.
He became national news against Texas Tech. The Cowboys’ top two backs missed the game with an injury. Jackson stepped in and rushed for 235 yards and three touchdowns on 36 carries, earning Player of the Week honors.
“I’ve always dreamed of that moment. Coming from a small school and then going to JUCO, I’ve been through a lot to get to that moment,” Jackson said. “I stayed patient and I just worked and worked. It finally showcased itself. It was just amazing to go out there and do what I did. I felt I was so caged up for so long and I just released it. I released it all and it was an amazing feeling.”
He finished the season as Oklahoma State’s second-leading rusher, accounting for 547 yards and four touchdowns.
Jackson’s play on the field could pay dividends soon.
“In a few weeks, I have some merch dropping. I will post a website soon. We’re getting it together. It’ll be shirts, hats, hoodies with my name and logo on it. It will be available on my website,” he explained.
“They presented it to me. I was very excited because I’ve never had anything like this. I’m glad the NIL thing is finally up and running now because it’s very convenient and necessary for us athletes. We work so hard. I just think it’s a real cool thing for fans, family and friends to wear our gear.”
Jackson said the clothing line is still in development and will be available on the website.
“Some stuff will say Dezmon Jackson but a lot will say D-Jack with my signature and 27 on it.”
For Jackson, the NIL activities are happening quicker than a toss sweep in the Big 12. The opportunities were only made available a month or so ago.
“I didn’t know the NCAA would pass this. Well, actually, we was alerted about the NIL last summer. It’s been a very cool deal to be apart of. A lot of companies have sent me a lot of free stuff of promo. I still have some stuff in the works so it’s very exciting.”
Camp kicked off Friday at Oklahoma State. Jackson spoke Sunday after the team’s third practice.
“It’s going good. I’ve been very in tuned. I had a great day (Sunday),” he said. “I’m very excited for the season. It’s my plan to make this my last season so I can declare after this season. I’m just very excited.
“I think everyone should be aware that it’s going to be a great season. My apparel will be available soon. I hope everyone will support me. I just can’t wait.”