Ohio State's Cade Stover on NIL compensation: 'I'd rather be paid in tractors'

INDIANAPOLIS – Cade Stover grew up on his family’s farm in Mansfield, Ohio.

Now a senior at Ohio State and a John Mackey Award semifinalist a season ago, he has found plenty of NIL success as an in-state product. Beloved by fans, he made the decision to return to college football for a final season.

Speaking at Big Ten Media Days on Wednesday, the tight end was honest about his feeling towards NIL. He’s fortunate to sign endorsement deals with some Ohio-based brands. As for how would like to be compensated, he had a simple request.

“Money-wise? I don’t know,” Stover said when asked how much he’s been paid. “I’d rather be paid in tractors, to be honest with you.”

Since the inception of NIL in 2021, Stover has signed NIL deals with multiple companies. An ambassador for Rocky Boots, he inked a partnership with the John Deere equipment dealer Ag-Pro Companies this past fall. He was also named to Land O’Lakes All-Ag Team back in October.

He has promoted the Central Ohio Farmers Co-op, Inc., too. Stover Farms raises cattle and produces beef. He has nearly 50,000 social media followers and a $368K On3 NIL Valuation.

A former four-star linebacker recruit, he made the transition to tight end for the 2020 season. He’s thrived since making the move. This past year with 36 catches for 406 yards and five touchdowns. His receptions and yardage totals last year were the most by a Buckeye tight end in 28 years.

Stover is expected to be a key piece of the Ohio State offense again this fall. His decision to return for another year is rooted in his want to beat Michigan and win a national title. Accepting NIL deals, however, has been a bonus.

“One, that’s the last thing kids should worry about is NIL,” Stover said. “If you really want to go do something good, you come here and they’ll set you up for life and the next level. I’ve had the opportunity to sign some really cool NIL deals that have helped me and my family’s farm. Then again, you come to Ohio State to play and compete against the best every single day.