NFL Star Darius Lassiter Donates $5.4 Million to Launch NIL Fund for BYU Cougar Athletes
In a monumental move that has sent waves through the collegiate athletics world, NFL superstar Darius Lassiter has donated $5.4 million to Brigham Young University (BYU) to establish a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) fund supporting Cougar athletes. This groundbreaking contribution is one of the largest individual donations in BYU athletic history and signals a transformative shift in how student-athletes will be supported in Provo for years to come.
Lassiter, a former BYU standout wide receiver who now stars in the NFL, has long been a vocal advocate for empowering student-athletes both on and off the field. His generous donation is aimed at helping Cougar athletes benefit from the opportunities available through NIL, which allows collegiate players to earn compensation for their personal brand, endorsements, and other commercial ventures.
“This university changed my life,” Lassiter said in a statement. “Now it’s my turn to change lives here. I want every Cougar athlete to feel the support I once did and to have the resources they need to succeed in every way possible.”
The NIL fund, which will be administered in partnership with BYU’s athletic department and Cougar Club, is designed to provide financial resources, educational support, and branding tools to all student-athletes, not just stars from high-profile sports. This inclusive approach reflects Lassiter’s vision of equity and opportunity for athletes in every program, from football and basketball to volleyball and track and field.
The donation is expected to make an immediate impact, with plans already in place to launch NIL workshops, mentorship programs with former athletes and professionals, and a dedicated team to help student-athletes navigate contracts and brand building. This multifaceted initiative will prepare BYU athletes not only to capitalize on their college careers but also to transition smoothly into professional sports or other post-graduation paths.
BYU Athletic Director Tom Holmoe praised the donation, saying, “This is a game-changer. Darius is a shining example of the spirit of giving back. His gift will provide opportunities and open doors for generations of Cougars.”
Current BYU athletes are already expressing their gratitude and excitement. “It’s amazing to see someone who came from this program and reached the highest level now turning around to lift us up,” said a senior BYU soccer player. “It makes us feel seen, supported, and inspired.”
Lassiter’s donation also sets a new benchmark for alumni involvement in college athletics. With NIL continuing to evolve across the NCAA landscape, his leadership may encourage other former players to support their alma maters in innovative ways that align with today’s student-athlete needs.
Ultimately, Darius Lassiter’s historic $5.4 million contribution is more than a donation—it’s a legacy. One that speaks to his belief in education, opportunity, and the power of giving back. It ensures that BYU athletes, now and in the future, have every chance to succeed—on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.
