Operations
Zaxby's taps UGA quarterback as brand spokesperson
August 19, 2021
Georgia-based Zaxby's has inked a deal with University of Georgia quarterback J.T. Daniels to serve as a brand ambassador for the 2021-2022 season.
"We're thrilled to partner with Heisman hopeful quarterback J.T. Daniels from the University of Georgia for the upcoming season," Zaxby's CMO Joel Bulger said in a company press release. "His leadership qualities on and off the field are remarkable and something that aligns well with our brand. We welcome J.T. to Team Zaxby's, a brand that has strong ties with UGA and deep roots here in Athens."
Daniels has agreed to a "Name, Image and Likeness" deal with Zaxby's, something that the NCAA moved to allow for college athletes effective July 1. The partnership includes appearances of Daniels on behalf of Zaxby's at corporate and philanthropic events as well as in advertisements. Daniels will also share Zaxby's-branded content from his personal social media accounts.
Zaxby's also has partnerships with Misfits Gaming Group's Florida Mayhem and with the Florida Mutineers in the e-sport and gaming industry. The Daniels partnership, however, will expand the brand's endorsement deals into college football.
Daniels led UGA to a 2020 Peach Bowl victory, and now in his junior year, hopes to bring a national championship back to Athens.
"Zaxby's has been my choice of food since coming down here to Georgia. I mean, there really is no comparison. I get asked all the time what my favorite food is. It is Zaxby's. Hands down," said Daniels, a native of Irvine, California. "To me, Zaxby's provides something I already enjoy, plus I can share it with my teammates and bring meals to ESP, an organization we both have already supported. This is the type of brand partner I am excited to have."
Founded in 1990, Zaxby's is still led by founder Zach McLeroy and has grown to over 900 locations in 17 states.
