Patrick Mahomes Donates $10 Million to Launch NIL Fund for Texas Tech Athletes
NFL superstar invests in Red Raiders’ future, creating one of the largest athlete support funds in the Big 12
LUBBOCK, Texas — Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and Texas Tech alum Patrick Mahomes has made a monumental $10 million donation to establish a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) fund for Texas Tech student-athletes, one of the most significant contributions to NIL efforts in college sports.
The new initiative, named the “The 15 Fund”, will directly benefit Red Raider athletes by providing financial opportunities through NIL deals. The fund is expected to support all athletic programs at Texas Tech, creating one of the largest NIL support systems within the Big 12 Conference and across the nation.
The announcement was made Monday by the Texas Tech Athletics Department, which praised Mahomes’ continued commitment to his alma mater. The two-time Super Bowl MVP played for Texas Tech from 2014 to 2016 and has remained closely connected to the university since entering the NFL.
“I’ve always taken great pride in representing Texas Tech and I’m forever grateful for the impact it’s had on my life,” Mahomes said in a statement. “The 15 Fund is a way for me to give back and help student-athletes navigate the new NIL landscape while continuing to elevate Texas Tech Athletics.”
The 15 Fund will work in partnership with The Matador Club, Texas Tech’s existing NIL collective, to ensure compliance with NCAA guidelines while maximizing opportunities for athletes across all sports. The fund is structured to help Texas Tech remain competitive in recruiting and retaining top talent, particularly in an era where NIL benefits play a significant role in college athletics.
Mahomes’ donation places Texas Tech at the forefront of the NIL movement, with many universities still struggling to organize and sustain effective NIL programs. While some top-tier programs have benefited from wealthy alumni and boosters, Mahomes’ contribution is notable both for its size and his direct involvement.
Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt expressed his gratitude, calling Mahomes’ gift a “game-changer” for the university.
“Patrick continues to set an example on and off the field. His generosity and vision will impact the lives of countless student-athletes and help Texas Tech compete at the highest level,” Hocutt said.
The NIL landscape, which officially began in July 2021, allows college athletes to profit from endorsements, appearances, and other opportunities using their name, image, and likeness. Since then, a patchwork of NIL collectives and donor-funded programs have emerged across the country, with mixed success. Mahomes’ 15 Fund adds structure, legitimacy, and considerable resources to Texas Tech’s approach.
Beyond football, the fund aims to support athletes in non-revenue sports such as track, volleyball, and golf, providing a more holistic and inclusive approach to NIL benefits. That emphasis on equity across programs aligns with Mahomes’ broader advocacy for fairness and opportunity in sports.
Mahomes’ legacy at Texas Tech continues to grow with this latest contribution. In 2020, the university named its football training facility after him following a $1 million donation. With the launch of The 15 Fund, Mahomes cements his role not just as an NFL icon but as a key figure in shaping the future of college athletics.
As NIL continues to redefine the college sports landscape, Mahomes’ investment sends a strong message: success in the modern era requires not just talent on the field but support off it — and he’s leading the way.