Brian Kelly to match up to $1M in NIL donations to LSU
LSU head coach Brian Kelly and his wife, Paqui, announced they're matching up to $1 million as part of an ongoing initiative to raise money for the school's NIL fund.
"LSU has a long and proud tradition of being one of the elite programs in college football," Brian Kelly said in a statement. "In order to remain among the nation's elite in this new world of college athletics, we have to be competitive in all areas of our program. I am committed to doing all that we can to win championships at LSU."
NCAA rules prevent coaches from paying players, so the Kellys' donation will go toward the Tiger Athletic Foundation. The school didn't specify how the donation from the coach would be dispersed.
Brian Kelly and his wife, Paqui, are kicking off the Kelly Family Million Dollar Match Challenge!
— LSU Football (@LSUfootball) December 13, 2024
They will match donations to LSU's Football NIL efforts - up to $1 million - with a gift to the Tiger Athletic Foundation’s AD’s Excellence Fund. pic.twitter.com/eqTGi6MBTO
LSU's head coach has been outspoken about the role of NIL and its impact on roster building in college football. Kelly previously lamented the idea of buying players.
"We're not in the market of buying players. And unfortunately, right now, that's what some guys are looking for," Kelly said in May.
The Tigers recently lost a commitment from five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood, who signed with Michigan during the early signing period. However, LSU received positive news this week that Garrett Nussmeier will return next season instead of declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Kelly has led the program to a 28-11 record through 39 games. The Tigers concluded the 2024 regular season with an 8-4 mark. LSU will close out the season in a matchup against Baylor in the Texas Bowl.