Professional athletes are more creative than ever when it comes to making money.
Whether it’s taking endorsement deals in cryptocurrency like Saquon Barkley or deferring salary like Shohei Ohtani, they’re always finding new ways to achieve their financial and on-field goals.
Enter Denver Broncos linebacker Baron Browning. He’s offering fans a unique opportunity to invest in his future earnings for the price of a few cups of coffee.
In partnership with Vestible Inc, Browning is selling shares of his future earnings at $10 each. With 100,000 shares available, he aims to raise $1 million. In return, shareholders will collectively receive 1% of his future on-field earnings.
A viral TikTok highlighted this innovative business plan. Take a look.
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Browning is in the final year of his 4-year, $4.7 million rookie deal. The 25-year-old out of Ohio State is likely in line for a significant raise, whether it comes later this offseason or next year.
Initially playing as a box linebacker in college and during his first year with Denver, after being selected in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, he transitioned to outside linebacker. As an edge rusher, he has excelled, recording 9.5 sacks in 24 games over the past two years—a notable achievement given the position change. He performed well last year, particularly against the run.
The NFL loves to pay pass-rushers, and even without being a superstar, Browning could secure a long-term deal worth over $10 million a year.
Does this investment make sense? According to the Seattle Times, investors will receive monthly dividend checks and can trade their shares on Vestible’s platform.
While I’m not a mathematician, it seems unlikely that investors would fully recoup their original investment. Based on rough calculations, Browning would need to earn over $100 million on the field for investors to make their money back through dividends.
This isn’t the first time an athlete has attempted something like this. Former Florida State quarterback and Buffalo Bills first-round pick EJ Manuel tried a similar approach with Fantex in 2014, which ultimately did not succeed. Perhaps Browning’s timing will prove better.