New partnership creates a first-of-its-kind pipeline guiding athletes from NIL to the NFL with elite representation, development, and long-term career support.
(PRUnderground) April 29th, 2026
Upper Edge Sports, a premier NFL agency with over $1 billion in negotiated player contracts, and Prime 1 Sports, a leading boutique NIL agency, today announced a strategic partnership designed to redefine athlete representation—from high school through college, the NFL, and beyond.
This partnership combines Prime 1 Sports’ elite NIL execution and player-first approach with Upper Edge’s decades of experience at the highest level of professional football, creating a seamless, end-to-end representation model for athletes at every stage of their careers.
Upper Edge Sports, led by CEO Andy Ross, brings more than 30 years of NFL agent experience and a track record of negotiating record-setting contracts for elite players, including former No. 1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney. Ross is also widely respected for his impact on the game, including pioneering the “junior rule” for the Senior Bowl and helping establish the NFL Draft’s partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Prime 1 Sports, founded by CEO Tara Sakraida Parker, has quickly established itself as a trusted leader in the NIL space, representing over 100 high school and collegiate student-athletes over the past three years. Known for its integrity, compliance infrastructure, and athlete-first philosophy, Prime 1 has built a strong foundation focused on protecting and positioning student-athletes for long-term success, on and off the field.
“This partnership is about building the most complete athlete development ecosystem in sports,” said Ross. “Prime 1 Sports has built a powerful foundation in NIL, and together we’re creating a true pipeline, from early exposure to long-term professional success.”
“This is exactly what our athletes deserve,” said Parker. “We’ve built Prime 1 with a mission to protect and empower our players. Partnering with Upper Edge allows us to expand that mission, giving our athletes access to best-in-class NFL representation, while continuing to guide them through NIL with the same level of care, strategy, and integrity.”
Together, the firms will provide a comprehensive platform that supports athletes from recruitment and NIL opportunities through professional contracts and post-playing careers, including:
- A premier marketing and PR division led by COO and NFLPA-certified agent Joe Sanfilippo, with a track record of securing tens of millions in brand partnerships
- Advanced scouting and analytics capabilities
- A veteran-led player development team, including Malcolm Blacken and Emanuel Drakes, with over 20 years’ experience
- A Hollywood production division led by Lisa Varga, delivering high-level storytelling and media opportunities
“This is not just about today. It’s about building something that lasts,” Ross added.
“This is the next level of representation,” Parker said. “And we’re just getting started.”
About Upper Edge Sports
Upper Edge Sports is a leading NFL agency specializing in player representation, contract negotiation, marketing, and long-term career development. The firm has negotiated over $1 billion in NFL contracts and represents elite talent across the league.
About Prime 1 Sports
Prime 1 Sports is a boutique NIL agency dedicated to helping student-athletes maximize their opportunities while protecting their long-term interests. Built on a foundation of integrity, compliance, and athlete-first advocacy, Prime 1 supports athletes both on and off the field.
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Original Press Release.
