In a historic act of generosity, Bradford M. Freeman, a former Stanford trustee and football player, has pledged a $50 million donation to Stanford University’s football program — marking the largest individual gift in the program’s history.
The university announced the monumental contribution on Wednesday, with Stanford football general manager Andrew Luck calling it “an incredible gift” that positions the program for both athletic and academic excellence.
“The ability to support our players through new scholarships and institutional NIL will reinforce Stanford as the preeminent place in the country to be a football scholar-athlete,” Luck stated. “We are entirely motivated to field championship-caliber teams.”
Strengthening Stanford’s Football Legacy
Freeman’s donation comes at a pivotal time in college athletics, as programs across the country face increasing financial demands due to the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era. According to Stanford’s announcement, the $50 million gift will be used to:
- Expand Stanford’s NIL support program
- Establish five new football scholarships for student-athletes
- Enhance facilities and player development resources
In recognition of Freeman’s extraordinary generosity, Stanford will rename the team tunnel at Stanford Stadium as the “Bradford M. Freeman Tunnel.” Additionally, one of the main entrances for fans will now be known as the “Bradford M. Freeman Gate.”
A Lifelong Connection to Stanford
A proud Stanford graduate from the Class of 1964, Freeman earned his undergraduate degree in economics. His history of philanthropy toward the university dates back decades — in 1988, he made headlines by endowing the nation’s first head coaching position, the Bradford M. Freeman Director of Football, a title currently held by Stanford’s head coach.
“I remain grateful for the opportunities that my Stanford football scholarship gave me, and for all the ways that the university impacted the trajectory of my life,” Freeman shared in a statement. “I hope my gift will herald a new era of excellence for Stanford football and help the university address the new financial demands of competitive college athletics.”
Freeman’s Net Worth and Financial Influence
According to Gurufocus.com, Freeman’s estimated net worth stands at $13 million as of 2025, based on SEC filings and stock holdings. While this figure remains unverified independently, it highlights Freeman’s successful career in business and investment following his time at Stanford.
Stanford Athletic Director John Donahoe praised Freeman’s contribution, saying, “Brad’s belief in the future of our program strengthens not only football but the foundation of excellence that defines Stanford Athletics.”
