Jordan Brand reveals HBCU-inspired cleats ahead of football season

Howard University football players will take the field this season in a new pair of exclusive Jordan Brand cleats. Jordan Brand recently unveiled the Howard Bison Air Jordan 11 player-exclusive football cleats, giving the Bison a custom version of one of the company’s most iconic sneaker silhouettes ahead of the 2026 season. The release includes both a high-top and low-top version, though neither model will be available for public purchase.

Inspired by the classic Air Jordan 11, the cleats feature a predominantly Bison blue colorway accented by a red Jumpman logo. Howard’s Bison logo appears prominently on the tongue, while the rest of the cleat carries the signature styling that has made the Air Jordan 11 one of the most recognizable shoes in sneaker culture.

The exclusive release is another product of Howard University’s long-term partnership with Jordan Brand. In 2022, Howard announced a 20-year agreement with Jordan Brand that outfitted the university’s athletic programs and made the Bison one of a select group of HBCUs affiliated with the iconic brand. The 2026 season marks the fourth year of that partnership.

The unveiling comes just weeks before Howard opens the 2026 football season under first-year head coach Ted White, who returned to lead his alma mater after previously serving as the Bison’s Assistant head coach, offensive coordinator & quarterbacks coach from 2011 to 2015.

Howard is scheduled to begin its season on Aug. 29 in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge against Alabama A&M at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta. The nationally televised matchup will air on ABC and marks White’s first game since returning to the program.

While fans won’t have the opportunity to purchase the Howard Bison Air Jordan 11 cleats, the exclusive player editions are expected to make their on-field debut when the Bison kick off the season against the Bulldogs.