Alabama Freshman Announces First NIL Deal
Although freshman running back Emmanuel Henderson has only been on campus since June, he has already begun to build his brand.
Henderson inked the first of likely many NIL deals this week, partnering with Life + Style by Laura, a brand based out of Dallas, TX, owned and operated by Laura Fedock. The exciting freshman tweeted out the announcement on Thursday.
Fedock, who has also partnered with several other notable SEC athletes, said in a reply to Henderson's tweet, "Cannot wait! So excited for the upcoming season and all the fashion you'll be rocking. Your game-day looks are going to be solid too!"
In an interview with NILportal.org, Fedock explained what her deals with the various athletes entail. She said, "Each new sponsored partner receives a welcome gift, a VIP gift basket prior to the season. This gift basket is valued at $2000+, so it’s a very big deal to these athletes. The basket contains sneakers, strategically selected clothing, jewelry, and many other items. No two baskets are the same."
"I want to be someone in their life who is not a ‘yes’ person. I don’t have to do this, but I want to. I want what is best for the players. I want them to be happy in life, and not just on social media. I literally help with all aspects of their lives. And more than anything, I genuinely care about them as individuals," Fedock said.
Henderson was a four-star prospect in the 2022 recruiting class and looks to be one of the more exciting freshmen on this year's team. Alabama kicks off in less than two weeks on September 4 against Utah State in Bryant-Denny Stadium.