BREAKING NEWS : BYU football Former captain Brad Martin Donates Entire $12.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter Initiative to Help Fund 150 Units Housing with 300 Shelter Beds… “I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew……. view more

BREAKING NEWS: BYU Football Former Captain Brad Martin Donates Entire $12.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter Initiative to Help Fund 150 Units Housing with 300 Shelter Beds

 In an extraordinary act of generosity and compassion, former BYU Football captain Brad Martin has announced the donation of his entire $12.9 million NFL bonus and recent sponsorship earnings to a large-scale housing and shelter initiative aimed at combating homelessness in the state of Utah.

The initiative, called “HomeField Advantage,” is set to break ground later this year and will feature the construction of 150 permanent supportive housing units alongside 300 emergency shelter beds. The facility will also include mental health resources, job training programs, and transitional services designed to support individuals and families on the path out of homelessness.

Martin, 28, made the announcement Tuesday in front of a modest crowd gathered at a press conference in Salt Lake City. “I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew I’d do something about it if I ever had the chance,” he said, pausing emotionally. “Football gave me a platform, but this—this is my purpose.”

The former linebacker, who captained BYU’s team in 2019 and went on to play four seasons in the NFL, recently concluded a contract extension that included a sizable bonus and several lucrative endorsement deals. But instead of spending on luxury or investing in high-yield ventures, Martin chose to give back.

“Brad’s contribution will fast-track this project by years,” said Monica Reyes, Director of Utah Hope Housing Coalition. “What would have taken a decade of piecemeal fundraising is now becoming reality in a single fiscal year. This isn’t just a donation—it’s a transformation.”

The site, planned for a once-vacant lot in West Valley City, will be managed in partnership with local non-profits and the state’s Department of Human Services. A portion of the shelter will be named “The Martin House” in honor of Brad’s late mother, whom he credits as his lifelong inspiration for service.

Martin’s former coaches and teammates at BYU have also spoken out in admiration.

Kalani Sitake, head coach of the BYU Cougars, said, “Brad always led by example—on the field and off. But what he’s doing now takes a different kind of courage. It’s the kind of leadership that changes lives.”

Though retired from professional football, Martin is far from done with making an impact. He revealed plans to launch a foundation later this year aimed at connecting current and former athletes with high-impact community service opportunities.

“Making it to the league was a dream,” Martin said, “but helping someone find their way off the streets—that’s legacy.”

As Utah continues to grapple with a growing homelessness crisis—exacerbated by housing shortages and economic instability—Martin’s donation stands as a beacon of hope, proving that one person’s decision to give can lay the foundation for hundreds to rebuild their lives.