Oklahoma State football QR codes, explained: Cowboys to help fund NIL collective with helmet decal

The implementation of NIL in college football remains a work in progress as players and coaches alike attempt to navigate a landscape riddled with collectives, agents, brand deals, and more.

Everyone is trying to figure out how to streamline the earning process for athletes without diminishing what they came to their schools to do: play football. 

Fortunately, Oklahoma State has discovered an innovative solution that combines players' on-field presence with their off-field business. After head coach Mike Gundy voiced his concerns that NIL could draw focus away from the gridiron, the team revealed ahead of the 2024 season that Cowboys helmets this year will feature QR codes linked to a donation page for the school's NIL fund. 

Here's everything to know about OSU's new helmets, including how the Cowboys hope to help support their NIL collective through the decal. 

MORE: What's new in college football for 2024?

Oklahoma State football QR codes, explained

While the Cowboys may have had a good idea, the NCAA isn't on the same page. Ahead of Oklahoma State's 2024 opener against South Dakota State, the governing body issued a ban of the QR codes, stating that they are prohibited under NCAA rules. 

BREAKING: No QR codes for Oklahoma State today, per release. The NCAA is blocking them from using it. pic.twitter.com/JhvR9FK8PA

— McClain (@McclainBaxley) August 31, 2024

"We disagree with the interpretation of the rule but will abide by it and work with the appropriate groups to lead on the needed change," Oklahoma State athletic director Chad Weiberg said in a statement. "Our people came up with an innovative concept to raise NIL value of our student-athletes, but ultimately, it just serves as the latest example of how college sports are evolving at a faster pace than the rulebook."

According to an Oklahoma State release, the NCAA views the decals as "advertising and/or commercial marks," which are not permitted under NCAA rules.

The plan was for every OSU helmet this year to have a QR code on the back connected to a web page organized by the team's NIL fundraising arm "Pokes With A Purpose." At only 1.5 square inches, the decal wouldn't be visible from the stands on game day; rather, it's more directed toward those watching broadcasts who will be able to scan the code with their phones from their television screens. 

This season, Oklahoma State will wear helmets with QR codes linked to the team's general NIL fund. pic.twitter.com/JfNXcSI7PN

— Front Office Sports (@FOS) August 20, 2024

Once on the web page, fans would be able to make donations ranging from $100 to $5,000, with an "other" option also available. Donations could be made one time or monthly, and fans could credit a player for their giving. It's unclear whether doing so means the funds designated will go directly to that player or into a general pool. 

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No other team has attempted an initiative quite like this, and so far, the NCAA isn't letting the plan kick off in Week 1. Nevertheless, with OSU entering the season ranked No. 17 in the AP Top 25, the QR codes should receive a decent amount of exposure, as they'll also be featured on players' bags, on coasters in premium seating sections, and on signage throughout Boone Pickens Stadium.

"This is a revolutionary step forward to help keep Oklahoma State football ahead of the game," Gundy said. "It gives a chance for everyday fans across the world to have a real impact when it comes to supporting the NIL efforts for Cowboy football. I'm thrilled about this opportunity for our players."

Oklahoma State football top NIL players

The Cowboys have some players who are doing pretty well in the realm of NIL already, including 2023 Doak Walker Award Winner and Heisman hopeful Ollie Gordon II. Despite a tumultuous offseason, he returns for his junior season this year alongside several other OSU teammates who have benefitted so far from the new regulations. 

Here are the top earners out of Stillwater, as estimated by On3.

2024 Oklahoma State football schedule

Fans will have at least 12 opportunities this year to donate to OSU's NIL fund, whether it will be through the QR code or not. Here's a look at the Cowboys' upcoming schedule, set to kick off at home against 2023 FCS national champion South Dakota State.