Top NFL prospect Bryce Young inks deal with Jordan Brand, Nike says

Young is widely projected to be the No. 1 NFL Draft pick

Former Alabama football standout Bryce Young is signing an endorsement deal with Jordan Brand, Nike announced Thursday.

The 21-year-old is widely projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in Thursday night's NFL Draft. In March, the Carolina Panthers acquired the top overall pick in a trade with the Chicago Bears.

Young won the Heisman Trophy in 2021 after an impressive season in which he threw for 4,872 yards and 47 touchdowns. He helped lift the Alabama Crimson Tide to the College Football Playoff national championship game that season. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXBUSINESS.COM

Quarterback Bryce Young of Alabama speaks to the media

Quarterback Bryce Young of Alabama speaks to the media during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium March 3, 2023, in Indianapolis. (Michael Hickey/Getty Images / Getty Images)

Other notable Jordan athletes who play in the NFL include Davante Adams, Dak Prescott, Cam Jordan, Devin White, Jarvis Landry, Tyrann Mathieu and Deebo Samuel. 

NFL DRAFT 2022: EX-LINEMAN'S FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR ROOKIES, REMARKS ON COWBOYS' CRYPTO DEAL

Jordan Brand usually keeps its roster of NFL athletes limited in an effort to maintain some level of exclusivity. The brand's first signee dates to 1999, when star wide receiver Randy Moss inked a deal.

Bryce Young looks to throw a pass

Bryce Young of the Alabama Crimson Tide looks to pass during the second quarter of the Allstate Sugar Bowl against the Kansas State Wildcats at Caesars Superdome Dec. 31, 2022, in New Orleans.  (Sean Gardner/Getty Images / Getty Images)

In recent years, the interest from athletes has increased, prompting the brand to reconsider how many players it adds to its roster.

While the Jordan Brand has largely been associated with the NBA, the Jordan Retro football cleats have grown in popularity. 

The Jordan Brand now has a presence in youth football, high school football and college football.

Bryce Young celebrates after a game

Bryce Young of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates after receiving the MVP award after the Allstate Sugar Bowl against the Kansas State Wildcats at Caesars Superdome Dec. 31, 2022, in New Orleans. (Sean Gardner/Getty Images / Getty Images)

Young likely had a fair share of suitors for a shoe endorsement deal, but he ultimately chose the Jordan Brand.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

From a marketing perspective, Young has an opportunity to become the face of the Jordan Brand's football division.

The 2023 NFL Draft begins tonight at 8 ET from Kansas City, Missouri.