Top 2027 QB Elijah Haven inks NIL deal with Matt Bowers Auto Group

One of the top recruits in the 2027 class, Elijah Haven is coming off an impressive sophomore season at Baton Rouge (La.) Dunham School. He also now has a high-profile NIL deal.

Haven inked a deal with Matt Bowers Auto Group in what the company called a “first-of-its-kind” NIL deal in a Monday announcement. Just a sophomore, it’s a notable partnership as his recruitment begins to heat up.

“Elijah is not only an exceptional athlete but also a person who embodies the values of hard work, integrity and community involvement,” said Matt Bowers, CEO of Matt Bowers Auto Group, in a statement. “We are thrilled to have Elijah on board and to be able to support his journey both on and off the field. This partnership is more than just an endorsement-it’s about elevating Elijah’s voice and using our platform to celebrate his achievements and future potential.”

Haven, repped by RJ Harris of Greenwood Ave, was the MaxPreps National Sophomore Football Player of the Year in 2024. He accounted for more than 4,000 yards of total offense and 56 touchdowns while leading Dunham to a 14-1 record and an appearance in the Division III Select state title game.

More on Elijah Haven’s recruitment

Haven – who’s also one of the top basketball players in the state – is currently the No. 3 overall prospect and top quarterback from the 2027 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He also checks in at No. 10 in the On3 2027 Top 100 rankings and the top quarterback in the class.

Haven’s list of scholarship offers features top programs such as LSU, Michigan, Ole Miss, Texas Tech and Florida, among others. On3’s Steve Wiltfong also had an update on whether Haven will attend LSU’s Junior Day this week.

“The Baton Rouge (La.) Dunham School signal caller had one of the best freshman seasons among 2027 quarterbacks and is a big, physically-gifted athlete,” On3 Director of Scouting Charles Power wrote. “At 6-foot-4 and over 200 pounds, Haven shows a strong downfield arm. He threw for 2,205 yards and 35 touchdowns against three interceptions as a freshman.

“Haven doubles as a plus rusher, adding 12 touchdowns on the ground. The rising sophomore will need to continue smoothing out his passing mechanics, but the physical upside is apparent and already manifesting in significant ways on Friday nights.”