Big changes are coming to college sports uniforms-and Florida State is in prime position to cash in.
Starting August 1, Division I programs will be allowed to place up to two sponsor patches on team uniforms during the regular season. That’s a major shift in how schools can generate revenue, and it opens the door for schools like Florida State to bring in potentially millions in new sponsorship dollars.
The NCAA’s Division I Cabinet officially approved the move, which also permits an additional sponsor logo on team equipment. During conference championship play, teams will be allowed one more uniform patch, bringing the total to three in those games.
Postseason tournaments like March Madness and the College World Series are still under review, with the NCAA exploring how to handle sponsor patches for those events. One thing that’s clear: sponsors that directly compete with existing NCAA corporate partners won’t be allowed.
Now, while the NCAA governs most college championships, the College Football Playoff operates independently-and it’s also considering allowing sponsor patches. That’s notable for programs like Florida State, which are perennial contenders and could see even more exposure-and revenue-if the CFP adopts similar rules.
So what does this mean for Florida State specifically? Opportunity.
The Seminoles have just over six months to lock in a sponsor whose logo could appear on their football uniforms. And with the kind of national attention FSU draws-especially with its football and basketball programs-there’s serious money on the table.
Industry estimates suggest that schools could earn anywhere from $500,000 to $12 million annually from these new sponsorship deals, depending on market size, brand appeal, and visibility.
Of course, there are some limits. The patches can’t be larger than 4 square inches and must be placed in areas that don’t interfere with officiating or existing uniform requirements. The exact placement will be determined by each sport’s rules and oversight committees.
This move is part of a broader shift in college athletics-one that’s increasingly focused on unlocking new revenue streams to support student-athletes and athletic departments. As Josh Whitman, Illinois athletic director and chair of the Division I Cabinet, put it: “College sports are in an exciting new era of increased financial benefits for student-athletes.” This policy, he said, reflects the NCAA’s ongoing effort to give schools more flexibility to meet their own needs and values.
For a brand like Florida State, which already has a strong identity and loyal fan base, this is a golden opportunity. Whether it’s a national brand looking to align with Seminole tradition or a regional partner that resonates with the Tallahassee community, the right sponsor could be a win-win for both sides.
The clock is ticking. August 1 will be here before we know it, and the Seminoles-like every other top-tier program-will be looking to make the most of this new era in college sports marketing.