MrBeast is considering a major investment in a G5 college football program, sparking buzz about potential changes.
YouTube star MrBeast may invest in a G5 college football program, raising expectations of a major college football shake-up.
The popular YouTuber MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, plans to invest nine figures in a Group of Five college football program. The plan, if it moves forward, could change the future of East Carolina University (ECU) football.
MrBeast grew up in Greenville, North Carolina, which is home to East Carolina University. He shows interest in this local connection that exists between him and the university. MrBeast, who has 456 million YouTube subscribers and a net worth of $2.6 billion, possesses financial resources that enable him to create significant change.
Joshua Owings, a sports creator, proposed that MrBeast should fund a G5 program's national championship push, which led to social media users spreading his idea. The post went viral, and MrBeast later reshared it, asking followers whether he should take on the challenge.
A $100 million investment will provide the ECU football program with considerable growth opportunities. For comparison, top Power Five teams like Texas and Oklahoma State reportedly spend $40 million and $20 million on roster-related costs in a season. The funding will enable ECU to support its recruitment efforts, facility development, and player development activities for multiple years.
Under Blake Harrell's leadership, ECU football has achieved consistent progress. The Pirates have two Military Bowl victories against ACC teams, and they compete at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, which has a capacity of over 51,000 fans. The program operates an indoor training facility that costs $25 million to build.
MrBeast's decision to move forward with his plans will create a new era for G5 schools because it shows that private funding, together with effective management, can enable small programs to achieve national success.
