What Does the Heisman Trophy Winner Get?

The Heisman Trophy is one of the most prestigious awards in college football, recognizing the most outstanding player each season. Winning the Heisman Trophy comes with a variety of tangible and intangible rewards, including media exposure, literary opportunities, and a chance to be drafted in the NFL. Understanding the benefits of this honor can give aspiring college football players additional motivation to excel on the field.

Physical Rewards: The Heisman Trophy and New York Sports Club Jacket

The primary physical reward for winning the Heisman Trophy is the Heisman Trophy itself, a gold-plated trophy named after John Heisman. Each winner also receives a custom jacket from the New York Sports Club. This jacket is a symbol of prestige and can serve as a long-term commemoration of the achievement.

Financial Bonuses: Early NFL Draft Selection and Magazine/AE Appearances

The financial benefits of winning the Heisman Trophy are significant, though not always immediately apparent. College football players who win the Heisman Trophy often secure a spot in the first round of the NFL Draft, which is highly lucrative. The financial benefits can include:

First-round NFL Draft Selection: The winning player's talent and Heisman performance attract significant attention, often resulting in a first-round selection that can be worth over $14 million in contract value. TV and Magazine Appearances: The winner typically appears in two magazine articles, likely in renowned magazines such as ESPN and Sports Illustrated. Additionally, they may have two television interviews, bringing in an estimated total of $600,000.

These media appearances not only bring financial rewards but also further cement the player's brand and reputation in the sports world.

Travel Opportunities: Multiple Airline Trips to Major Events

Winning the Heisman Trophy also comes with multiple travel opportunities. The winner often gets to attend several events and conventions, such as the Heisman Trophy Ceremony, media tours, and potentially several trips to NFL events. Winning players may receive up to six full trips, each including airfare to almost any destination of importance in the football world. This travel can be an invaluable experience, exposing the winner to the upper echelons of the NFL and major college programs.

Exposure and Selection in the NFL Draft

The NFL Draft is one of the most crucial moments in a football player's career, and winning the Heisman Trophy increases the likelihood of securing an early selection. In general, a Heisman winner is chosen among the first 20 spots in the NFL Draft. This early selection not only provides immediate career security but also higher contract values. The financial and professional benefits of being drafted early are substantial, often leading to long-term stability and financial success in the NFL.

Other College Football Awards

Winning the Heisman Trophy is a remarkable achievement, but it is important to note that there are six other prestigious awards in college football. These include:

Rose Bowl Trophy: Given to the MVP of the Rose Bowl game. COffer Cup: Awarded to the Heisman Trophy winner of the previous season. Walter Camp Player of the Year: A national award given to the best player in college football. AP Player of the Year: A recognized player of the year selected by the Associated Press. Big Ten Freshman of the Year: Given to the best freshman in the Big Ten Conference. Davey O’Brien Award: Presented to the best college quarterback.

Earning any of these awards, including the Heisman Trophy, can provide considerable benefits and recognition for college football players.

Winning the Heisman Trophy is not just about the money or the recognition; it is about the impact it has on a player's life and career. For many, it represents the pinnacle of their collegiate endeavors and sets the stage for a successful professional career.

Conclusion

Winning the Heisman Trophy is a remarkable achievement that comes with a range of tangible and intangible benefits. From receiving a prestigious award to securing a place in the first round of the NFL Draft, these rewards make the Heisman Trophy a highly coveted honor in college football. Players who achieve this distinction are not only recognized for their exceptional talent and performance but are also set on a path to significant success in professional football.