Ryan Williams made a name for himself in college football at just 17 years old, becoming one of Alabama’s most exciting players. Now 18, he’s making headlines for his skills on the field. Now, he’s using his on-field play to create unique opportunities off the field, as his latest NIL deal is making him stand out as one of the most unexpected partnerships in sports.
Ryan Williams Signs NIL Deal With Sally Hansen
As a freshman, the Alabama wide receiver recorded 48 receptions for 865 yards and four touchdowns, as he is poised to become the Crimson Tide’s next star WR. After signing the NIL deal with the nail polish brand Sally Hansen, Williams’ NIL valuation is up to $2.3M. The announcement came on his 18th birthday, marking a unique collaboration between a football star and a beauty brand.
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Williams said in a promotional Instagram video, standing in front of birthday balloons:
“What’s good guys, it’s Ryan ‘Hollywood’ Williams here, and you know it’s a big day for me. As you can clearly see, it’s my birthday, and it’s also the big game. So you know I gotta get right today. Gotta start off right, get the nails right, let’s go!”
Williams chose an all-black polish from Sally Hansen, showcasing his signature game-day look. The wide receiver has been painting his nails since high school, a tradition started by his younger sister. What began as a fun bonding experience quickly became part of his identity.
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Williams’ popularity skyrocketed after an impressive performance against Georgia, where he totaled 177 yards and a touchdown. Following that game, his NIL valuation jumped from $732,000 to $1.5 million. With over 640,000 Instagram followers—100,000 of which he gained after that performance—he quickly became one of college football’s most marketable athletes.
His growing influence attracted major brands beyond Sally Hansen. Williams has landed deals with NXTRND, Uber Eats, Hollister, Nintendo, and EA Sports College Football 25. His endorsement deals aren’t just about money; they align with his brand as a confident, expressive athlete unafraid to stand out.
Ryan Williams’ New Era for NIL Endorsements
While players like Arch Manning ($6.5M) and Cooper Flagg ($4.3M) top the list, Williams has positioned himself as a unique figure in the NIL space. Williams’ deal with Sally Hansen challenges traditional athlete endorsements.
NIL deals in college football typically involve apparel, performance supplements, or gaming partnerships, so Williams’ collaboration with a nail polish company is groundbreaking. His choice to embrace individuality rather than conform to traditional expectations could inspire more athletes to secure deals that reflect their interests.
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The partnership also expands Sally Hansen’s reach, proving that self-expression knows no boundaries in sports.
Williams is currently ranked No. 13 on On3’s NIL list, making him the highest-ranked Alabama player. His rapid rise in football and marketing suggests he will remain a major figure in the NIL era.
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