10 MINUTES AGO: Elon Musk Offered DeMeco Ryans $82 Million to Promote His Tesla Cybertruck, But the Football Star’s Response Stunned the Entire NFL World

In a shocking revelation that’s sending ripples through both the NFL and tech industries, Tesla CEO Elon Musk reportedly offered Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans a staggering $82 million deal to become the face of the Tesla Cybertruck campaign. But what stunned everyone wasn’t the offer — it was Ryans’ surprising response.

According to sources close to both parties, Musk personally reached out to Ryans in early May with what insiders are calling one of the most lucrative non-athletic endorsements ever proposed to an NFL coach. The offer included commercial appearances, social media campaigns, public events, and even a limited-edition “DeMeco Edition” Cybertruck package.

While most expected the young head coach to jump at the opportunity — especially given his rising profile after turning the Texans into playoff contenders — Ryans declined.

And he didn’t just decline politely.

“I’m focused on building a championship team in Houston,” Ryans reportedly told Musk directly. “I’m not here for the distractions — not even $82 million worth.”

The Unlikely Connection

The connection between Musk and Ryans might seem unusual on the surface, but there’s more to the story. Tesla has been working to rebrand the Cybertruck as not just a vehicle for tech enthusiasts, but for athletes, adventurers, and “everyday warriors” — people who embody strength, intelligence, and leadership.

Ryans, a former Pro Bowl linebacker and now one of the NFL’s most respected young coaches, fit that image perfectly. Musk, who has never shied away from making bold, unconventional moves in marketing, reportedly viewed Ryans as the perfect face to introduce the Cybertruck to sports fans and the wider public.

“Elon respects competitors and game-changers,” said a Tesla marketing executive who asked to remain anonymous. “Coach Ryans is a warrior, a strategist, and a natural leader. That’s what the Cybertruck brand wants to reflect.”

A Massive Offer, An Even Bigger Statement

The $82 million offer included a five-year partnership with performance-based bonuses and a share in future Cybertruck sales through the “DeMeco Edition” model, which would have featured upgraded armor, matte black exterior options, and AI-assisted driving configurations optimized for “coaching minds.”

What makes Ryans’ refusal so significant is not just the money — it’s the message. In a sports world often dominated by endorsements and branding, Ryans made it clear that his only focus right now is on football and his team.

“He’s sending a message to his players and the league,” said former NFL coach Tony Dungy. “Stay focused. Stay humble. Stay committed. That’s leadership at its finest.”

Fans and Players React

The NFL world didn’t take long to react. Social media exploded within minutes of the news breaking.

“Coach DeMeco turning down $82M to focus on football?? That’s legendary,” tweeted Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud. “That’s the kind of leader I want to go to war with.”

Many NFL fans praised Ryans for staying grounded and committed to the Texans’ long-term success. Some even joked that Elon Musk should now offer the deal to NFL stars with more “free time,” like retired legends or current players in off-market cities.

Others were in disbelief.

“$82 million?? That’s generational wealth. That’s 4 lifetimes of salary for some coaches,” wrote one fan on Reddit. “DeMeco is either incredibly focused or incredibly crazy — maybe both.”

Musk Responds

Never one to stay quiet on major headlines, Elon Musk responded to the situation with a characteristically cryptic tweet.

“Respect. Not everyone can be bought. Cybertruck will find its champion.”

Musk’s tweet included a photo of the Cybertruck driving off into a Texas sunset, further fueling speculation that he may still be eyeing someone from the Houston area for future campaigns.

What’s Next?

As for DeMeco Ryans, he seems unfazed by the attention. At a press conference following OTAs, when asked indirectly about the Cybertruck offer, Ryans grinned and said:

“My drive right now isn’t electric — it’s championship-powered.”

With the Texans stacked with young talent and momentum building after a breakout 2024 season, Ryans is quickly becoming more than just a coach — he’s becoming a cultural icon of leadership, integrity, and purpose.

And while the Cybertruck might be the vehicle of the future, DeMeco Ryans is focused on driving his team toward one goal: a Super Bowl title.