Jalen Hurts Secures Historic Endorsement with Sprite

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has recently secured a momentous endorsement deal, further enhancing his portfolio following his leadership in securing a victory at Super Bowl 59. Hurts made history as the first NFL player to feature in a Sprite commercial, which is part of the soft drink company's revitalized 'Obey Your Thirst' campaign.
In a statement regarding his partnership with Sprite, Hurts expressed the significance of the collaboration: 'Being a part of the next “Obey Your Thirst” campaign is really special. This partnership brings back a lot of childhood nostalgia and not only speaks to my core values, but to the standards I’ve set for myself throughout my career—showing up and being yourself is always enough.' The original 'Obey Your Thirst' campaign was initiated in 1994, with NBA legend Grant Hill serving as the brand's key spokesperson. Over the years, various athletes and musicians, including the likes of Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, LL Cool J, and A Tribe Called Quest, contributed to television and print advertisements.
The campaign was put on hold in 2019, replaced by the slogan 'Thirst for Yours,' while continuing to feature figures from the hip-hop community. In April 2024, the campaign made a comeback, showcasing Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards and Olympic gold medalist Sha’Carri Richardson in distinct television spots. Brian Rogers, Sprite's senior brand director, elaborated on the decision to revive 'Obey Your Thirst,' stating, 'The “be true to you” spirit of Obey Your Thirst resonated with consumers in 1994, and we’re confident it will resonate in 2024. Because now more than ever, younger generations are bombarded with messages about who they should be and how they should behave. Sprite is the antidote to today’s intense cultural heat—expectations, pressures, opinions, advice, and noise—as a brand that empowers fans to challenge the status quo and embody their authentic selves.' Hurts' advertisement creatively parodies his well-known stoic demeanor during press conferences, incorporating a reporter named 'Thirsten A. Sip,' a clever nod to ESPN's Stephen A. Smith. This new ad campaign featuring Hurts coincides with the Eagles' looming defense of their Super Bowl title, as they prepare to host the Dallas Cowboys in the 2025 season opener on September 4.








