Baltimore, MD – August 26, 2026 — Caddix, the Baltimore-based cleat company pioneering injury‑reducing footwear through its patented SmartStuds™ technology, announced today that Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane has joined the company as an investor.
Lane becomes the newest professional athlete backing Caddix’s mission to help players perform at their highest level while reducing turf‑related injuries.
Rookie Lane Betting on Injury‑Reducing Tech
The former USC and Ravens rookie receiver chose to invest a significant portion of his rookie salary rather than accept paid brand‑ambassador deals from major shoe and NFL‑affiliated cleat companies. He already wears Caddix cleats, believes in the technology, and wants to protect himself from preventable injuries. He joins an investor group that includes former Ravens stars Todd Heap and Dennis Pitta, NFL quarterback Joe Flacco, and professional soccer player Kayla Sharples.
“This is another milestone in our momentum as the leader in injury‑reducing cleat technology,” said Jack Rasmussen, CEO and Co‑Founder of Caddix. “Having Ja’Kobi join as an investor instead of taking payment from top cleat companies shows we’re building solutions athletes truly value. His decision goes beyond financial support; it reflects belief and courage in our mission. When athletes like Ja’Kobi stand behind our technology, it reinforces that we’re building what the game genuinely needs.”
The TikTok above is him at his Lids meet-and-greet last week, interviewing with The Next Network in Arundel Mills Mall and then in Perry Hall, Maryland, later that day on Monday, 8/21.
SmartStuds™: A Technology Athletes Are Choosing
Lane, who recently signed with the Ravens after his standout career at USC, is beginning his NFL journey by backing technology he trusts. Caddix’s SmartStuds™ system uses cleat studs engineered to flex and release under extreme rotational loads, helping reduce the torque responsible for knee and ankle injuries.
“As an athlete, I’m always looking for ways to improve my performance while staying healthy enough to keep leveling up,” Lane said. “When I first wore Caddix and learned what they’re building, I saw a real opportunity. Investing was an easy decision because I believe in the technology, the team, and the impact it can have on players at every level.”
Former Ravens tight end Todd Heap, who coached Lane in high school, praised the rookie’s drive.
“When Ja’Kobi steps on the field, his work ethic is second to none. I’ve watched his ability and determination since he was young. We all know he’s a special player.”
Momentum Beyond the Field
Lane’s investment comes as Caddix expands into Dick’s Sporting Goods and Scheels stores nationwide and continues building relationships with athletes across professional and collegiate sports. Nearly 100 current and former NFL stars, including Tom Brady, Budda Baker, and Kyle Juszczyk, all have worn Caddix cleats.
For more information, visit caddix.com.
