Will Anderson Jr. Joins Klutch Athletics By New Balance

Klutch Athletics by New Balance, the sportswear brand founded by Rich Paul, has officially welcomed Will Anderson Jr., the Houston Texans defensive end and third overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, as the newest ambassador for the brand.

Anderson becomes the second American Football ambassador for both New Balance and Klutch Athletics by New Balance, joining Washington Commanders defensive end Chase Young as the brand continues to integrate itself into American Football.

As the newest member of the New Balance family, Anderson is actively involved with the brand’s design team on the development of a new American Football cleat, due to launch in 2024. New Balance’s entry into the American Football scene is a testament to its strength in team sports and understanding of an athlete’s needs. Working with athletes such as Anderson, Young, and sportswear brand Klutch Athletics helps New Balance bring the best gear to all its athletes.

“At New Balance, living at the intersection of sport and culture is a top priority for our brand,” said New Balance Chief Marketing Officer and SVP of Merchandising Chris Davis. “Having two of the most dominant athletes in the league is an ideal foundation to establish the Klutch Athletics by New Balance brand. Fast, dynamic, and game-changing are words that immediately come to mind in describing Will's impact on the field. We are excited to implement Will into the development and testing processes of our new Football cleats launching in 2024, as well as integrating him in communal activation to promote sport to youth across the country.”

Leading up to the exciting announcement, Men's Journal spoke with Anderson about his decision to sign Klutch Athletics by New Balance, vision for the partnership, and preferred footwear.

How does it feel to be the newest signee for New Balance and Klutch Athletics sportswear?

"It’s a blessing to be a part of the brand. So far, it’s been working out really well and I’ve felt that I can really bring my unique style and perspective to Klutch Athletics by New Balance. To be a part of history with Klutch Athletics by New Balance and New Balance American Football made it a no-brainer as I already share similar beliefs with them."

What is your vision for this partnership?

"I already know this partnership is going to be special right out the gate. Even though it’s just the beginning, we have big things popping up next year both on-the-field for New Balance and off-the-field for Klutch Athletics by New Balance. It’s going to be amazing to be able to work with the design team and to later rep New Balance’s first professional American football cleat. They’re already taking a lot into account from my experience playing on the field in terms of feel and comfort."

Did you talk to Chase Young before making the decision?

"I actually had the opportunity to visit the Klutch Athletics by New Balance pop-up in Kansas City for the 2023 NFL Draft, and seeing the impact the brand was able to make and talking to Chase and Rich on site, I felt great energy. I knew this was something I wanted to be a part of as an innovator."

Are you going to try to recruit other NFL players to New Balance?

"As much as I can. I already have teammates, coaches, and training staff in the locker room complimenting the hoodies and workout gear, telling me they want in on this gear. It makes me really excited for the future."

You have dominated the start of the NFL season. How are you handling this level of hype?

"I take it day by day, one game at a time. My ultimate goal is to do all that I can to positively impact the game and help us get some wins. I really just focus on putting in the work."

What is your favorite New Balance lifestyle sneaker to wear off the field?

"I love the 1906Rs! They’re so comfortable, and I can style them with most of my outfits. But there is such a variety, I am excited to work them into my looks."

“It’s so exciting to welcome, arguably, the best defensive prospect from the 2023 NFL Draft to Klutch Athletics by New Balance,” said Klutch Athletics by New Balance Founder and CEO Rich Paul. “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.”

New Balance will also be hosting a community-focused event and seasonal fashion show display with Dick’s Sporting Goods at Dicks House of Sport in Katy, Texas – hosting Anderson in a celebration of his signing to Klutch Athletics by New Balance on September 19 from 6:00-7:30 p.m.

He will participate alongside guests in football-related drills and conduct a formal meet-and-greet to sign autographs. The Klutch Athletics by New Balance collection is available at select retail locations across North America and online at newbalance.com/klutch-athletics/. Suggested retail prices range from $40 for t-shirts to $120 for hoodies.

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