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What’s the GAME Changer?
Gridiron Housing reshapes the playbook for professional athletes, unlocking new opportunities to secure and grow their financial futures.
Our strategy is clear:
Our goal is to help you carry the same drive, discipline, and technique from the gridiron into profitable real estate investments.
Earn passive income
Our vision is to create lasting impact by building strong communities and generational wealth.
Our mission is to be the trusted partner for athletes seeking stable, long-term investments—equipping you with the knowledge, tools, and guidance to succeed beyond the game.
Take the lead
Master the game plan
Build lasting wealth through strategic real estate investments. Secure your legacy beyond the game.
Athletes team up with us, leveraging our expertise and deep connections to unlock new opportunities in real estate and beyond.
Gridiron Housing mentors you as an investment athlete, providing a clear playbook through transparency and education.
Real Estate Development
Master Class
"When I saw what Gridiron was doing, I knew it was the real deal. They’re teaching athletes how to own, invest, and build for the future. This is how we create legacy."
— Brandon Walton, Carolina Panthers
Backed by NFL pros.
Powered by industry experts.
Built for your next chapter.
Gridiron Ambassador
WORLDWIDE
Brandon Walton American Football Offensive Lineman, Carolina Panthers, NFL
Don Powell with Mayor of St. Petersburg, Kenneth Welch, and Turner Construction’s Business Development Manager, Denise Young
Brandon Walton
is an offensive lineman for the Carolina Panthers. A standout at Florida Atlantic University, Brandon earned All-Conference honors and served as a team captain during his collegiate career.
Brandon’s journey with Gridiron Housing is deeply personal—he grew up in the very Pinellas County school system where Gridiron was awarded the RFP to provide housing for educators. Now, he’s come full circle, contributing to a mission that directly impacts the community that shaped him. As both an advocate and developing real estate professional, Brandon has spent his offseasons learning alongside Gridiron’s founding team—attending live development sessions and engaging in strategic planning focused on asset growth and community impact. As a rising leader and voice for athlete empowerment, he is dedicated to helping fellow players access the tools needed for long-term financial freedom through real estate.
Gridiron Housing Team after winning the RFP in Pinellas County
GRIDIRON'S STORY
I’m Don Powell, founder of Gridiron Housing. After winning a Division II Football National Championship and earning my finance degree from Valdosta State, I started my career off at a Fortune 500 as a financial advisor, launched a real estate brokerage, and co-founded an AI tech startup—all as an entrepreneur. What has that taught me? Mind, body, spirit comes first. Knowledge is power, and everything you want in life will come through a Team effort.
The deeper I got into business, the more I saw a disconnect: athletes weren’t translating on-field excellence into major off-field investments. Where are the large-scale commercial developments led by pros? Why is it headline news when an athlete finally does a large real estate deal? The answer is simple—there’s a knowledge gap. And we’re here to close it.
At gridiron, our team believes the most powerful way to build long-term wealth and create lasting community impact is through affordable and workforce multifamily housing. This is our passion and our mission. We don’t just invest—we educate, partner, and grow with you. Not off you.
