SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Texas Star Colin Simmons Announces NIL Update Before Third Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Mar 13, 2026 11:55 AM ET

Colin Simmons and the Texas Longhorns wrapped up the 2025 season, going 10-3 and 6-2 in SEC matchups. While they failed to make a College Football Playoff appearance, the Longhorns did defeat the Michigan Wolverines in the Citrus Bowl, leaving things on a good note.

Simmons had an impressive sophomore season, once again serving as one of Texas' top defenders. He finished 2025 with 43 tackles, two pass deflections, 12 sacks (led team) and three forced fumbles. One of his most impressive performances came against the Kentucky Wildcats with three sacks and one forced fumble.

Texas Longhorns edge Colin Simmons.Sara Diggins-Imagn Images via American Statesman

As one of the premier defenders in college football, Simmons' popularity and personal brand continue to grow. It has led to increased Name, Image and Likeness opportunities.

Simmons had already revealed NIL partnerships with major brands such as Hollister, Sonic and Amazon Alexa. On Friday, he announced another exciting opportunity, this time with Nike.

"rocking with the swoosh. #TeamNIKE," he wrote via an Instagram post.

View this post on Instagram

Simmons cashing in on another partnership is no surprise. His On3 NIL valuation of $1.5 million is tied for the 25th-highest in college football. It's also the third-highest for anyone on Texas, behind quarterback Arch Manning ($5.4 million) and wide receiver Cam Coleman ($2.9 million).

This new partnership with Nike represents the pass rusher's growing reputation not only among Longhorns fans but all college football fans. However, he is facing some major pressure going into his third season.

Texas is tied for the highest odds (+700) to win the 2026 national championship, according to DraftKings. Simmons is expected to be a key contributor to whether or not the Longhorns make that happen.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: