Deion Sanders’ Colorado Buffaloes took a unique approach to name, image, and likeness deals this offseason.

Jason Jones from Sports Illustrated shared that Trevor Reilly, who stepped down on August 1, wrote to Colorado’s athletic director and Sanders. In his letter, he mentioned discussing possible NIL funding from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) during a trip to the Middle East.

“I even traveled to Saudi Arabia and had discussions with interested parties about business. I have email receipts to back this up, and it all ended up going nowhere.”

Reilly told Sports Illustrated he acted independently, claimed he did nothing wrong, and aimed to help Colorado in the best way he could.

A partnership with Colorado wouldn’t be the PIF’s first sports venture. They’re already behind LIV Golf, support Formula One, own most of Newcastle United, and have a stake in Chelsea.

Still, the partnership would have led to plenty of criticism for Colorado.

Saudi Arabia faces criticism for using sports to divert attention from human rights issues and scandals through its PIF investments.

Sanders’ program has faced its share of criticism, from how it handles the transfer portal and its social media activity to the difference between media hype and actual on-field performance.

Backing some NIL deals with PIF funds after Colorado’s tough season under Sanders wouldn’t have silenced the criticism around the program.

The partnership didn’t go through, and Reilly has left the staff.

The Buffaloes are eagerly preparing for their season opener against North Dakota State on August 29.