Cowboys to Wear QR Codes on the Back of Their Helmets to Promote NIL

Expect to see a lot more QR codes throughout Boone Pickens Stadium this season — most notably on the backs of the Cowboys’ heads.

Oklahoma State on Tuesday announced players would wear QR codes on the backs of their helmets that link to the general team NIL find (for every player on the roster). The stickers will be 1.5 square inches and will also feature the player’s name and number in the design. The hope is that close shots during the TV broadcasts and photos from the game feature the decals, thus boosting earning potential.

“This is a revolutionary step forward to help keep Oklahoma State football ahead of the game,” said coach Mike Gundy in OSU’s release. “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.”

It’s certainly an out-of-the-box idea, expected to be the first time a college team will wear QR codes in regular season games to promote NIL. Its usefulness remains to be seen — whether people will actually take the time to pause the game and give it a scan. Shoot, the sidelines are tight enough, maybe the fans in the front row behind OSU’s bench can get in on the action.

And the helmet QR codes won’t be the only example of the technology on gameday. Each player will have a QR code on their bag during The Walk. More QR codes will be on the coasters in the premium areas of the stadium, on signage throughout the stadium and on the OSU football equipment truck. There might be more things to scan in Boone Pickens Stadium than at the self checkout at Walmart.

The first time the QR codes will be in action is Aug. 31, as the Cowboys host reigning FCS national champ South Dakota State at 1 p.m. in Boone Pickens Stadium.