Walk-On's signs NIL deal with LSU's GiVanni Peterson, awards scholarship

The sports bar and restaurant chain Walk-On’s is living up to its name.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the restaurant declared Wednesday as National Walk-On’s Day and every third Thursday in the month of September moving forward. As part of the announcement, the Baton Rouge-based brand signed an NIL deal with walk-on LSU tight end GiVanni Peterson.

Walk-On’s will pay for his scholarship, as part of the agreement. The third-year player was surprised by the NIL deal in a team meeting, with Brian Kelly introducing Walk-On’s co-founder Brandon Landry who made the announcement.

“Reaching our 20th anniversary is a momentous milestone for Walk-On’s,” Landry said in a statement. “We started as a small dream, and thanks to the unwavering support of our guests and the dedication of our team members, we’ve grown into a thriving community. This day is a celebration of our guests, who have been the backbone of our success.”

In a video released by the LSU football team, GiVanni Peterson informed his mother he had secured a scholarship thanks to the NIL agreement. From Highlands Ranch, Colorado, the tight end has played in all three games this year.

“I don’t know if it will ever hit me because I need to keep that chip on my shoulder, that grind, that mindset,” Peterson said in the video. “What got me here is going to take me farther. This is not the end, this is just another step in the direction I’m moving.”

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The restaurant is also celebrating the occasion by adding traditional bone-in wings to its menu for the first time ever. Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux has nearly 100 locations across the country.

“At Walk-On’s, we’re not just about great food; we’re about creating unforgettable experiences. We take pride in being more than just a sports bar – we’re a community, a family, and a place where people come together to celebrate life’s victories, both on and off the field,” Walk-On’s CEO Chris Dawson said. “As we commemorate our 20th anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our guests, team members, and partners for their continuous support and loyalty.

“With ‘National Walk-On’s Day’, the addition of bone-in wings, and recognizing Walk-On athletes through NIL deals, we are embarking on an exciting new chapter, one we can’t wait to share.”

Since losing to Florida State on Labor Day Weekend, LSU has picked up wins over Grambling State and Mississippi State. Jayden Daniels was impressive last weekend in Starkville, completing 30 of 34 passes for 361 yards without an interception and rushing for 64 yards.

The 12th-ranked Tigers return to Death Valley this weekend, set for a primetime matchup with Arkansas.