A wild federal fraud case is putting a former Alabama football player at the center of an alleged scheme that used NFL stars’ identities to secure millions in loans. Prosecutors say former Crimson Tide defensive lineman Luther Davis participated in a plan that falsely used the name of Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and other pro players to obtain fraudulent funding.
According to court filings in Georgia, Davis and alleged accomplice CJ Evins are accused of securing at least 13 loans totaling nearly $20 million between May 2023 and October 2024. Investigators claim the pair posed as professional athletes during online loan closings while presenting fake identification and business records.
One of the most serious accusations involves a $3.3 million loan allegedly taken out in Michael Penix Jr.’s name through All Pro Capital Funding. Authorities say the loan was arranged by sports finance broker Sure Sports. During a July 25, 2024 virtual closing, prosecutors claim Davis appeared wearing a durag and showed a fraudulent Florida driver’s license bearing Penix’s name.
Federal officials also allege the scheme targeted Green Bay Packers safety Xavier McKinney and former Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku. Investigators say fake companies, email addresses, and bank accounts were created to make the transactions appear legitimate. Prosecutors further claim disguises including wigs and makeup were used during meetings with lenders and notaries.
Neither Penix nor any of the other NFL players named in the filings are accused of wrongdoing. Authorities state their identities were used without their knowledge.
Davis and Evins have reportedly informed the court they plan to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. A plea hearing is scheduled for April 27. The wire fraud charge alone carries a possible prison sentence of up to 20 years if convicted.
