FAU QB N’Kosi Perry signs first NIL deal with an alcohol-based company

Starting quarterback for FAU N’Kosi Perry has signed a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal with the Islamorada Beer Company that was announced Wednesday. 

NIL deals have been happening in college sports since its rule changes by the NCAA. However, this marks the first with a company based around alcohol. 

“We are happy to announce, Islamorada Beverages is the first Alcohol Company to endorse an NCAA Athlete through the NIL,” the company said on Twitter. “We had a great time working with @ko_live5 [N’Kosi Perry} and @trentnrobison [Trent Robinson, Management and Marketing agent at First Round Management) in making this partnership happen!”

We are happy to announce, Islamorada Beverages is the first Alcohol Company to endorse an NCAA Athlete through the NIL. We had a great time working with @ko_live5 and @trentnrobison in making this partnership happen! #GoOwls pic.twitter.com/1JXwgGPlNT

— Islamorada Beverages (@IslamoradaBeer) September 8, 2021

While the company is based in the Florida Keys, there is a massive FAU connection as its run by alumni of the school.

“From the Football Field to the Florida Keys,” Perry said. “Excited to partner with FAU alumni-owned business as the first-ever NIL athlete to sign a deal with a beer/liquor company.”

From the Football Field to the Florida Keys. Excited to partner with FAU alumni owned business as the first ever NIL athlete to sign a deal with a beer/liquor company @islamoradabeer @trentnrobison#islandstateofmind #mysandbar #getsideways pic.twitter.com/1UTYVNqovu

— N’Kosi Perry (@kosi_perry) September 8, 2021

This announcement comes off the heels of Perry making his first start with the Owls last Saturday against the Florida Gators. He threw for 261 yards and one touchdown.

N’Kosi Perry wasn’t the only FAU Owl that got a NIL deal. Every female athlete that attends the school, which is over 200, will be sponsored by the Florida Panthers. 

Making more NIL moves 👀

We have offered NIL contracts to every eligible female athlete at @FAUAthletics! Each athlete is welcomed to apply to our FLA Athlete program through @dreamfieldco.

📝 » https://t.co/BPow6EUJg2 pic.twitter.com/lbZpcsee8n

— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) September 8, 2021

The FAU football program is set to face Georgia Southern in the home opener, Saturday, Sept. 11. 

Photo courtesy of Eston Parker III.