Chase Young is Taking New Balance into the NFL
Chase Young crafted a legendary football career at the Ohio State University before ever entering the NFL. It was no surprise that the Washington Commanders selected Young with the second overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft.
However, Young's stellar rookie season exceeded the lofty expectations placed on the defensive end. Young won the 2020 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award before facing new obstacles with a knee injury that hindered his following two seasons. Young has battled back to full health, and no one is doubting his talent.
In fact, Young's biggest supporters are doubling down on their belief in the generational talent. Young has officially been named the first ambassador of Klutch Athletics by New Balance, a sportswear brand from Rich Paul.
“I’m excited to welcome Chase to Klutch Athletics,” said Klutch Athletics Founder and CEO Rich Paul. “He aligns perfectly with the brand based on his talent, his values and his fit with our team. In Chase, I see someone who embodies the spirit of what it means to Be Klutch. We are focused on uplifting and empowering all athletes, and I believe Chase will help us achieve that.”
The Klutch Athletics by New Balance debut apparel line will be available for purchase starting April 27 online and at select retail locations across North America. Suggested retail prices range from $40 for t-shirts to $120 for hoodies.
Earlier this week, Young sat down in a room full of Klutch Athletics gear in Boston to speak with FanNation Kicks about his role with the brand, his goals for the future, and his favorite footwear.
Chase Young training in Klutch Athletics apparel.
New Balance
How does it feel to be the first brand ambassador for Klutch Athletics sportswear and NFL athlete for New Balance?
"It's a blessing; it's a big opportunity that I was blessed with. Growing up as a kid, you just think about getting to the NFL and to the Hall of Fame. You really don't think about everything outside of the sport, but I got a little bit older, and now it's an opportunity and blessing that I want to take advantage of."
What is your vision for this partnership?
"The reason I came to Klutch Athletics and New Balance was because of their morals. They're real big on giving back, and that's one of my things. Really just trying to give back and inspire the next generation."
You're going to be working closely with the design team for the brand’s first-ever football cleat (launching in 2024). Have you already started brainstorming ideas?
"Yeah, you know, I have. But I'm not going to get too in deep on the cleat. We're going to see that one pop."
Are you going to try to recruit other NFL players to New Balance?
"I'm going to stay in my lane on that one."
Now that you are fully recovered from your knee injury, what are your goals for the 2023 NFL season?
"To be the best player I can be and play every snap."
What is your favorite New Balance lifestyle sneaker to wear off the field?
"So, I grew up in D.C., so New Balance was big for us. I had a lot of 993s. I can remember in middle school; I had about five pairs. I still hold that one in my heart; it's always going to stick. The 574s are cool, but even growing up, the 993s were the coolest."
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