Will Anderson has never been afraid to be different.
Whether that was bucking recent trends and playing in Alabama’s bowl game or starting his NFL career by sacking a former MVP, Anderson’s football story thus far is one of forging his own path. Since he was selected third overall in the 2023 NFL draft, that’s tangible meant helping rookie coach DeMeco Ryans and fellow top-3 pick C.J. Stroud turn around the culture of the Houston Texans.
Buy Texans TicketsNow, Anderson has decided what part of his path will look like off the football field. He announced his partnership with Klutch Athletics by New Balance. He’s the second American Football ambassador for the brand, joining 2020 first round defensive end Chase Young to represent the brand within the NFL.
OFFICIAL: NFL Pro Bowler Chase Young has signed with New Balance — becoming the brand’s 1st American Football athlete.
Young will also become the 1st ambassador for Rich Paul’s new Klutch Athletics by New Balance brand, and work with New Balance to create its 1st NFL cleat. pic.twitter.com/mUf1KiAgHs
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) April 12, 2023
The Texans Wire had the opportunity to speak with Anderson last week and discuss his excitement around the new partnership and what led him to choosing New Balance.
“For me, it was just different. You know what I’m saying? Most guys they’d probably go with another brand but for me I’m all about being different. I felt like this opportunity was something that I could reach out and do something that most people wouldn’t do. You know, it’s working out really well.” Anderson continued about his choice that, “The values that we share, the beliefs that we share, the family values, everything like that is similar. Just to be a part of history and be innovative and keep creating new things is what I’m all about and what New Balance is all about. Just to have the same mindset as someone that you plan to work with is very special.”
The Houston Texans and Coach Ryans haven’t been shy to admit that Anderson has not only lived up to their expectations as a player but as a person in how he interacts with others. Klutch Athletics by New Balance and CEO Rich Paul was similarly complimentary of Anderson in this way.
“Will’s values, his performance off-and-on the field, and his style perfectly align with the brand. Like Chase Young, I see Will as an embodiment of what it means to be Klutch and he will put a great emphasis on uplifting and empowering all athletes, no matter their background.”
For Anderson himself, he believes the partnership is a natural pairing that goes beyond simple athletic wear. When asked to follow up on the specific values that were shared by himself and Klutch Athletics by New Balance, he pointed to their involvement with the community as a tangible example.
“Yeah, so like for instance, Tuesday I’ll be having a showing at Dick’s Sporting Goods, a meet and great with the community.” Anderson said about New Balance’s values. “I’m all about giving back to the community and for Klutch Athletics by New Balance to do something like that, it just shows me what their beliefs and their values are and how they align with mine.”
That event will be held tomorrow, September 19th, from 6:00pm to 7:30pm at Dick’s Sporting Goods at their Katy location. The announcement continues what has been a great fall to kick off Anderson’s rookie campaign as he has 9 total tackles, 3 quarterback hits, and a sack through his first two career games. Fans can watch Anderson next Sunday as Houston travels to Florida to take on the division rival Jacksonville Jaguars.
