As Texas Tech faces NIL scrutiny, WR Reggie Virgil uses it to give back
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Texas Tech has been under a lot of heat as they flex their name, image, and likeness (NIL) muscles on the recruiting trail and in the transfer portal. Their newfound NIL war chest and blueprint for execution have worked flawlessly, as the Red Raiders landed a top-ranked transfer portal class and upped the ante on the recruiting side of the house. Head coach Joey McGuire has secured a commitment from a top 10 player in offensive tackle Felix Ojo and is a legitimate threat to secure even five-star level talent.
Naturally, rivals of the Tech program, who themselves spend millions (looking at you, Texas), have started complaining that they should have a higher salary cap or saying it is not fair that Tech is "buying their roster." The irony in all of this complaining is not even worth discussing, as it is so blatantly ironic and apparent that it warrants no discussion. One thing that does warrant discussion is how some of the Tech players are using that NIL money. Top wide receiver Reggie Virgil recently made headlines for supporting a local football program to the tune of a $5,000 check.
Lots of people hate the NIL world and I get it. But they don’t talk enough about how young men can pour back into their former programs. We are blessed and so thankful for @Therealreggie11 and his donation and love for MDCA. @TexasTechFB y’all have a tremendous player but more… pic.twitter.com/Ztel1zFBPj
— Kolby Tackett (@kolbytackett) July 23, 2025
The generosity shown by Reggie shows the other side of NIL. Many players use some of their funds to start non-profits, give back to their communities, support Christmas Toy Drives, and a variety of other things that positively impact the less fortunate around them. Kudos to Reggie and tip of the cap to Coach Joey McGuire for building a culture that supports and encourages such acts of kindness from his players.
MORE: Texas Tech in a battle with Texas for the top-rated quarterback in the 2027 class
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-e01c17fcdae4e0dd656bdc7ca6585efc-53691679a614377a6a1b52f78beac8fb.jpeg "Jerred Johnson")
Jerred Johnson has served in the United States military for over 23 years. He has a Bachelors in Marketing, a Masters in Management and is in the final phases of completing his Doctorate in Business Administration.