Oklahoma State putting QR codes on helmets linking to Pokes With A Purpose NIL collective

Oklahoma State is thinking outside the box to direct NIL funds to athletes this college football season.

The Cowboys announced Tuesday morning that QR codes are being put on helmets this season that will link back to the Pokes With A Purpose NIL collective donation page. Fans can make a general donation or give credit to a certain player, such as running back Ollie Gordon, for example.

“This is a revolutionary step forward to help keep Oklahoma State football ahead of the game,” Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy said in a statement. “It gives a chance for everyday fans across the world to have a real impact when it comes to supporting the NIL efforts for Cowboy football. I’m thrilled about this opportunity for our players.”

QR codes aren’t new to the NIL scene. UCF wore spring game jerseys in 2022 with codes linking back to players’ social media channels. Schools have also flashed QR codes on video boards, connecting fans with NIL collectives.

NIL dollars have become crucial to competing in college football while retaining and attracting top talent. For the last three years, third-party NIL collectives have become imperative to lean on donors to raise funds.

Last week, Gundy told media members he is ready for the season to start. He’s spent time on the phone with players’ agents calling the Oklahoma State coach attempting to negotiate Roster Value agreements.

“That’s what I told the players. There’s no negotiating now,” Gundy said. “The portal’s over. All the negotiation’s history. Now, we’re playing football. Just coaching and playing football.”

That could all soon change with the House v. NCAA settlement. Schools could begin sharing up to $22 million in revenue starting in 2025-26. The settlement would also provide a payday for the thousands of athletes who were not allowed to capitalize on NIL, participate in revenue sharing or profit from video games.

Instead of facing $20 billion in back damages, the NCAA and Power Five conferences signed off on a 10-year settlement agreement that includes $2.776 billion in back damages. New scholarship limits are set to be installed, and the settlement would attempt to establish new enforcement in college sports.

Until then, NIL collectives will be key to winning in college football. Oklahoma State’s new QR codes are just the latest move to raise dollars.