JUST IN: Kansas State Star Avery Johnson Inks $50 Million Microsoft Deal, Donates $30 Million to Community and Program
In a stunning development that has captivated the college sports world, Kansas State Wildcats quarterback Avery Johnson has signed a groundbreaking $50 million endorsement deal with tech giant Microsoft, becoming one of the highest-paid collegiate athletes in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era. But what has truly shaken fans, teammates, and sports media is what Johnson chose to do next — donating $20 million to Kansas State University’s football program and $10 million to a local orphanage.
The announcement was made during a packed press conference in Manhattan, Kansas, where Johnson, flanked by university officials and representatives from Microsoft, confirmed the record-breaking deal and his philanthropic plans. “This isn’t just about the money,” Johnson said. “It’s about using the platform I’ve been given to give back to the people and places that shaped me.”
A Deal That Changes the Game
The partnership with Microsoft is unprecedented for a college athlete. As part of the multi-year deal, Johnson will serve as the face of Microsoft’s youth development and digital learning campaigns, highlighting technology’s role in shaping future leaders. The campaign will include national advertisements, speaking engagements, and appearances across Microsoft’s educational platforms.
Sources inside the negotiations revealed that Microsoft sees Johnson not only as an athletic star but also as a role model for youth empowerment, digital literacy, and character-driven leadership.
“Avery Johnson represents the future — not just of football, but of what leadership looks like in the 21st century,” said Karen Williams, Microsoft’s Head of Global Marketing, in a statement. “We are proud to partner with him to inspire the next generation.”
Giving Back with Purpose
Rather than simply bask in his newfound fortune, Johnson immediately turned his attention to giving back. His $20 million donation to the Kansas State football program is earmarked for facilities upgrades, scholarship expansion, mental health support, and community outreach. Head Coach Chris Klieman called it “the single greatest gesture of support we’ve ever received from a player.”
Even more touching was Johnson’s pledge of $10 million to a local orphanage in Wichita, Kansas, where he had volunteered as a teen. “I remember those kids — I remember their dreams, their pain, their hunger for love and opportunity,” Johnson shared emotionally. “They’re not forgotten. This is for them.”
National Reaction and Legacy
Social media erupted with admiration, with hashtags like #AveryJohnsonEffect, #TrueLeader, and #50MWithPurpose trending within hours. College football legends, NBA stars, and even political leaders weighed in on the quarterback’s generosity and maturity beyond his years.
“This is bigger than football,” ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit tweeted. “This is a young man showing the world how to lead.”
Final Thoughts
At just 20 years old, Avery Johnson is redefining what it means to be a student-athlete in the NIL era. He’s not only making history on the field — he’s building a legacy that stretches far beyond touchdowns and trophies. With one bold deal and an even bolder heart, Avery Johnson just changed the game forever — for Kansas State, for college sports, and for e
very young person watching.
