Texas A&M star Trey Zuhn III signs a $38M Powerade deal, donating $18M to the program and $4.8M to an orphanage—true leadership

In the era of NIL deals and skyrocketing athlete valuations, the story of Texas A&M football star Trey Zuhn III stands out—not just for the numbers, but for the values behind them.

Earlier this week, Powerade announced a landmark endorsement deal with Zuhn, reportedly worth $38 million—a deal that instantly places him among the highest-paid athletes in college football history. But instead of turning the spotlight solely on personal gain, Zuhn flipped the narrative by making two stunning decisions.

First, he donated $18 million back to Texas A&M’s football program. Then, in a move that melted hearts across the country, he gave $4.8 million to a local orphanage that he’s been quietly supporting since his freshman year.

In an age often defined by self-promotion and financial opportunism, Trey Zuhn III is a throwback—a player who understands that greatness is about far more than what happens between the lines.

The Deal That Changed Everything

The Powerade partnership was months in the making, but those close to the deal say it came together swiftly once the brand realized what kind of person Zuhn truly was.

“He’s the complete package,” said one Powerade executive. “Athleticism, discipline, charisma—and most of all, character. Trey represents everything we want our brand to be about.”

The deal includes national commercials, social media campaigns, a signature hydration line, and co-branded NIL merchandise set to hit stores this fall. It also gives Zuhn a platform to advocate for causes close to his heart—something he made clear from the first meeting.

Giving Back: $18 Million to Aggie Nation

Rather than basking in the glow of sudden wealth, Zuhn’s first major move was stunning: he donated $18 million directly to the Texas A&M football program.

“I’ve been blessed beyond anything I could have imagined,” Zuhn said in a press release. “This university, this program—it’s given me everything. It’s only right that I give back and help secure its future.”

The donation will fund facility upgrades, scholarship enhancements, mental health support for student-athletes, and a new nutrition center in Kyle Field named after his late grandfather, a lifelong Aggie fan.

Head coach Mike Elko called the gift “transformational” and praised Zuhn not just as a football player, but as “one of the most selfless leaders I’ve ever coached.”

$4.8 Million to the Heart of His Mission

Zuhn’s second donation hit even closer to home. The offensive tackle, known for his soft-spoken humility off the field, has quietly volunteered at a Bryan-College Station orphanage since his freshman year.

Many didn’t even know he was involved—until now.

“This place has always been part of my life here,” Zuhn explained. “The kids, the staff—they’ve shown me what real strength looks like.”

The $4.8 million donation will fund expanded housing, education programs, therapeutic services, and even a new recreation center that will bear his name. For the orphanage’s director, it’s a moment of overwhelming gratitude.

“We’ve never seen anything like this,” she said through tears. “Trey didn’t just give us money—he gave us hope.”

From Colorado Roots to Texas A&M Star

Born and raised in Fort Collins, Colorado, Trey Zuhn III arrived at Texas A&M with big expectations. A former four-star recruit, he was known for his physical presence—standing 6’7” and weighing over 315 pounds—as much as his technical skill.

But what truly set him apart was his mindset. Coaches quickly saw he was wired differently: focused, mature, relentlessly team-oriented.

“He’s the kind of guy who’s first in the weight room, last to leave the film room, and never asks for anything in return,” said a former offensive line coach.

Zuhn battled through injuries early in his career but emerged as a leader by his junior season. Now a projected first-round NFL Draft pick, he’s one of the most dominant linemen in the country—and, as it turns out, one of the most generous too.

Leadership That Transcends the Game

In a locker room full of talent, Zuhn’s leadership has always stood out. Teammates describe him as a “glue guy”—someone who holds the team together through effort, example, and quiet strength.

“You know how some people talk about being a leader, and others just do it?” said quarterback Conner Weigman. “Trey’s a doer. He’s always there. Always lifting people up. He’s the best teammate I’ve ever had.”

It’s this reputation that helped open the door to massive endorsements. But it’s also what makes his story resonate far beyond the sports world. In a time when fame often distorts values, Zuhn is using his platform to amplify his purpose.

A Blueprint for the NIL Era

Since the NCAA began allowing athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness, the landscape of college sports has changed dramatically. Critics have worried that NIL would erode team culture, shift focus toward personal branding, and widen gaps between programs.

But Trey Zuhn III offers a different vision—a blueprint of what NIL can be when used with integrity.

He’s not only secured his financial future—he’s elevated those around him. By giving back to Texas A&M and his community, he’s reinforcing the values of loyalty, gratitude, and service.

“He didn’t just cash a check,” said Elko. “He turned it into something meaningful. That’s leadership in its purest form.”

Eyes on the Future

With the 2025 NFL Draft looming, Zuhn is projected as a top-10 pick by most analysts. Scouts love his footwork, physicality, and football IQ—but what’s got front offices really buzzing is his off-the-field presence.

“You draft a guy like Trey, and you’re not just improving your offensive line,” said one NFL GM. “You’re improving your locker room, your culture, your brand. He’s that guy.”

Zuhn says he’s taking it one day at a time.

“I’m focused on this season, on being the best teammate and player I can be,” he said. “The rest will take care of itself.”

Legacy in the Making

At just 21 years old, Trey Zuhn III has already cemented a legacy that extends far beyond football. He’s not just a standout player—he’s a symbol of what’s possible when character meets opportunity.

In an age defined by NIL headlines, it’s easy to forget what college sports are meant to be about: growth, community, perseverance, and impact. Zuhn is a reminder that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of humility—or humanity.

As one longtime Aggie fan put it: “He’s the kind of young man you point to and say, ‘That’s what we want our kids to be like.’”

With a $38 million deal, two transformative donations, and a heart full of purpose, Trey Zuhn III has shown the world that greatness isn’t just measured in stats—it’s measured in service.