BYU 5-star QB commit draws attention with high-profile NIL partnership

BYU five-star quarterback commit Ryder Lyons is already making headlines off the field. The senior from Folsom, California, announced across social media that he has signed an NIL partnership with Under Armour, joining a roster that includes NFL stars such as Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson and Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward.

Ranked No. 32 in the Class of 2026 by Rivals, Lyons becomes one of the youngest football prospects to secure a deal with the global sports brand.

His post on @ryder.lyons read: “Pumped to be part of the UAFootball team. WE ARE FOOTBALL.” The announcement comes just two months after he committed to BYU live on “The Pat McAfee Show,” a decision influenced by the Cougars being his first scholarship offer back in eighth grade.

Lyons has described that early belief as a key reason he chose BYU despite interest from USC and Oregon.

Ryder Lyons’ Under Armour Partnership Raises His Profile

The partnership elevates Lyons into an exclusive group of athletes tied to one of football’s biggest brands. Under Armour has increasingly targeted dynamic playmakers, and Lyons’ addition reflects its strategy of identifying stars before they reach the college level. For the company, signing a five-star quarterback still in high school reinforces its relevance in the NIL era.

On the field, Lyons has proven worthy of the spotlight. Through two games this season, he has nearly 800 total yards and 12 touchdowns. His signature outing came against Junipero Serra, when he threw for 389 yards and four scores while rushing for three more in a 56-42 victory.