Cleveland Browns defensive powerhouse Myles Garrett has always defied the typical jock stereotype. He is a unique blend of a fearsome athlete on the field and a dedicated fan of fantasy and pop culture off it. This unique identity has now found the perfect platform in a major new collaboration.
Garrett is stepping into a role that seems custom-built for him, fronting Gatorade's revived 'No Ordinary Athlete' campaign in partnership with the massively popular Netflix series, Stranger Things. This initiative kicks off as the show's fifth and final season is released, marking a significant cultural moment.
A Perfect Cultural Crossover
For Garrett, this partnership is far more than a simple branding deal; it is a celebration of his authentic self. His connection to Stranger Things is genuine and well-documented. His enthusiasm was publicly on display back in 2022 when he arrived at a game dressed as the show's terrifying villain, Vecna.
That moment was a powerful statement, proving that even one of the NFL's most dominant defenders has the heart of a true fanboy. 'As a huge Stranger Things fan, being able to bring what I do on the field and apply it to the 'No Ordinary Athlete' campaign has been an incredible experience,' Garrett stated, adding that working with Gatorade 'made it even better.'
Amplifying the Campaign
The campaign is being rolled out through a fresh digital and social media strategy. Fans can expect to see digital truck displays at Cleveland Browns tailgates, with the promotion expanding to iconic advertising hubs like Times Square and Sunset Boulevard.
To amplify the nostalgia, Gatorade is briefly bringing back its legendary Citrus Cooler flavor. The brand is also launching themed throwback merchandise, including the '1987 Hawkins Capsule' and the 'Upside Down Capsule', creating a direct link to the world of Stranger Things.
More Than Just an Athlete
This venture arrives at a peak time in Garrett's career. With a spectacular five-sack game still fresh in public memory, he is not only a frontrunner for the Defensive Player of the Year award but also a cultural ambassador. He is effectively bridging the gap between the worlds of hardcore sports and science fiction fandom.
Myles Garrett has always stood out, not just for his ability to terrorize opposing quarterbacks, but for unapologetically being himself. In an era where sports and entertainment increasingly overlap, his latest project solidifies his status as truly no ordinary athlete.
