After companies like Adidas, Nike and Under Armour being involved in a bidding war for future NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel, it was the Swoosh that ended up on top, signing Johnny Football to a multi-year endorsement deal, ESPN's Darren Rovell reports.
Manziel, who won the Heisman Trophy as a freshman in 2012, informed Nike that he would join them as their endorser for their products such as Nike football apparel and cleats. Nike spokesman KeJuan Wilkins confirmed that Manziel joined the Swoosh.
Money has not been announced of the deal, but the contract with Nike is for multiple years and it will be the richest contract out of this year's NFL rookie class. Other players in this draft class have signed endorsement deals as well, such as Jadeveon Clowney with Puma.
Though it's not guaranteed Manziel will be the No. 1 pick of the 2014 NFL Draft, as he may even slip out of the top 5, he was the No. 1 option in terms of marketing and promoting among this year's rookies. In addition to Manziel, Nike now endorses Russell Wilson, Drew Brees, Colin Kaepernick and Aaron Rodgers as their NFL quarterbacks.
It was reported a while back that Manziel would sign with Under Armour. Other reports suggested Adidas, since he wore their uniforms when he was with Texas A&M. But, of course, it was Nike that ended up getting out on top like they have so many times in the past with other superstar athletes.
I'm guessing Miami Heat's LeBron James had some influence into this. James is basically a mentor for Manziel now, so he probably helped Nike in the pitch to get Manziel with the Swoosh.
Nonetheless, I think it was a smart move for Manziel. Nike and him are a perfect fit for each other.
