In a major move that’s sending shockwaves through the college wrestling world, Braeden Davis has reportedly agreed to a groundbreaking $4.3 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with the University of Oklahoma.
Davis, a four-time Michigan state champion and former standout at Penn State, had been one of the most highly touted young wrestlers in the country. Though his time at Penn State was limited due to injuries, Davis’s potential has never been in question—and now, it seems Oklahoma is betting big on that potential.
The deal, which is yet to be officially confirmed by the university, would mark one of the largest NIL contracts in college wrestling history. It reflects the growing influence of NIL in non-revenue sports and signals a shift in how top programs are leveraging financial incentives to attract elite talent.
Davis is expected to bring immediate star power and competitiveness to the Sooners’ wrestling program, as they continue to build a powerhouse in the Big 12 and beyond. If finalized, this agreement could set a new precedent for how collegiate wrestling recruits and retains top athletes in the NIL era.
