NFL Superstar Christian McCaffrey Joins Performance Brand as Co-Founder and Investor

NFL star Christian McCaffrey has joined performance footwear and apparel brand while on earth™ as co-founder and investor, alongside Todd Meleney and CrossFit legends Mat Fraser and Brooke Wells. McCaffrey brings unparalleled visibility and authenticity to the brand, which offers performance footwear and apparel for those who move, go, and do. The brand champions timeless, versatile products designed for training and daily life with intention.

NFL star Christian McCaffrey has joined performance footwear and apparel brand While on Earth as co-founder and investor, alongside Todd Meleney and CrossFit legends Mat Fraser and Brooke Wells. This strategic move signifies McCaffrey's commitment to building something from the ground up, beyond his football career.

While on Earth, launched in the fall of 2024, specializes in versatile footwear and apparel designed for training and daily life. The brand has been making inroads among fitness and wellness enthusiasts, thanks to its signature Move Trainer shoe and apparel collection made from recycled materials [2].

McCaffrey's decision to join While on Earth is notable for several reasons. First, it marks a departure from his longstanding relationship with Nike, where he had been associated since his high school days [2]. Second, McCaffrey's involvement extends beyond a simple endorsement deal. He is an active co-founder, providing valuable input on product design and direction [2].

While on Earth's CEO and co-founder, Todd Meleney, praised McCaffrey's intelligence and honest feedback, highlighting the unique nature of their partnership. "This relationship with Christian is really unique because he's genuinely a part of building the company," Meleney said [2]. McCaffrey's involvement is expected to help While on Earth expand into new categories and reach a broader audience.

McCaffrey's interest in investing dates back to his time at Stanford University, where he was an All-American and finished in the top 10 of the Heisman Trophy voting in 2015 and 2016. After joining the NFL, he continued to seek investment opportunities, with his involvement in While on Earth being one of his latest ventures [1].

While on Earth's initial funding round raised a seed funding round in the "low seven figures," which translates to the low-millions of dollars range [1]. The company plans to introduce signature McCaffrey sneakers and gear next year, although it does not produce football cleats [1].

McCaffrey's decision to join While on Earth reflects his desire to challenge himself and contribute to something bigger than his football career. "I look at it as I'm going to attack this the same way I attack football," he said. "I'm going to put my all into it, and hopefully, it succeeds" [1].

References:
[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/timcasey/2025/08/25/49ers-star-christian-mccaffrey-secures-equity-stake-in-startup-footwear-company/
[2] https://sg.news.yahoo.com/nfler-christian-mccaffrey-joins-while-040100924.html