Graham Mertz, the experienced quarterback for the Florida Gators, is set to navigate his final college football season in style, thanks to a new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) partnership with Mercedes-Benz of Gainesville. This exciting collaboration was announced on Monday, marking Mertz’s entry into the Gainesville automotive scene and adding a prestigious brand to his growing NIL portfolio. This isn’t Mertz’s first foray into the automotive NIL world; back in February 2023, he secured a Range Rover Sport Supercharged through a deal with Essential Motors NJ, showcasing his appeal to car dealerships.
While the complete details of the agreement with Mercedes-Benz of Gainesville remain undisclosed, it’s confirmed that Mertz will be actively involved with the dealership throughout the summer and fall. His responsibilities will include making appearances at Mercedes-Benz of Gainesville events and leveraging his social media platforms to promote the brand. This partnership positions Mercedes-Benz of Gainesville to connect with the passionate Florida Gators fanbase through a prominent and respected player.
Mertz’s inaugural season with the SEC was statistically impressive. He threw for an impressive 2,903 yards and 20 touchdowns, while notably limiting interceptions to just three. His completion percentage of 72.9% led the SEC, highlighting his accuracy and efficiency. Despite these individual successes, the Gators concluded the season with a 5-7 record, and Mertz unfortunately missed the final game due to a collarbone injury. Now fully recovered, he is poised to lead the Gators offense as the starting quarterback this summer.
Gators head coach Billy Napier has publicly praised Mertz’s leadership and influence within the team. “[He] has the respect of the entire organization and the respect of his teammates,” Napier stated this spring. He further emphasized Mertz’s impact: “I think over time, his example – not only with his work ethic but as a competitor, has the toughness, the way he prepares, the way he treats people. Not just his teammates, but I would say all throughout the building. He’s a consummate pro… I think the quarterback sets the standard for the entire team and organization. And he’s done that.” Napier’s confidence in Mertz underscores the quarterback’s value both on and off the field, making him an attractive partner for brands like Mercedes-Benz of Gainesville.
While highly-rated recruit DJ Lagway is expected to compete for playing time, Mertz’s experience gives him a strong advantage. A former four-star recruit himself, Mertz transferred to Florida after spending four seasons with the Wisconsin Badgers. His proven track record and on-field maturity solidify his position as the Gators’ most seasoned quarterback.
The NIL era has witnessed a surge in collaborations between college athletes and car dealerships. These deals vary in structure; some dealerships provide vehicles for seasonal use, while others offer athletes access to vehicles for limited periods. Agreements may also differ on responsibilities such as car insurance. Mercedes-Benz of Gainesville joining this trend highlights the ongoing evolution of NIL partnerships and their diverse forms.
Beyond Mercedes-Benz of Gainesville, Graham Mertz has cultivated a diverse NIL portfolio, partnering with national brands like Panini America, Pepsi, Raising Cane’s, and PDQ Chicken. He is also scheduled to participate in the prestigious Manning Passing Academy. Furthermore, Mertz actively collaborates with Florida Victorious, a prominent NIL collective focused on supporting Florida athletes. Mertz is also embracing the digital realm, having opted-in to the highly anticipated EA Sports College Football 25 video game and launching his own merchandise line through Equity Sports. His substantial social media presence, boasting nearly 105,000 followers, further amplifies his reach and value to potential partners like Mercedes-Benz of Gainesville.
