Former Alabama Player Charged in $20M NFL Impersonation Fraud

Prosecutors say makeup, wigs helped Luther Davis bilk investors by posing as pro athletes

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:18pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a fake driver's license with an NFL player's photo, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the use of fraudulent identification in a financial crime.A fraudulent ID used in an alleged $20 million scheme to impersonate NFL players exposes the vulnerability of remote financial transactions.Atlanta Today

A former University of Alabama defensive tackle named Luther Davis has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft for an elaborate scheme in which he used disguises like wigs and makeup to impersonate NFL players and secure millions in fraudulent loans. Davis and an accomplice, CJ Evins, are accused of bilking nearly $20 million from at least 13 victims through the scam, which they used to buy real estate, jewelry, and cars.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing problem of identity theft and financial fraud targeting professional athletes, whose celebrity status and high salaries can make them attractive targets. It also raises concerns about the vulnerability of the sports and finance industries to such sophisticated schemes.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Davis would don wigs and makeup to pose as specific NFL players on video calls with investors, convincing them to provide millions in loans that were never authorized by the real athletes. The complaint alleges Davis and Evins used fake driver's licenses with the players' photos to further the impersonation. The scheme netted nearly $20 million that was used for personal purchases.

  • In early 2024, Davis allegedly impersonated an NFL player on a video call to finalize a $4 million loan.
  • In March 2024, Davis allegedly used a wig to impersonate another NFL player and secure additional fraudulent loans.
  • In July 2024, Davis allegedly used a do-rag-style head covering to impersonate a third NFL player and obtain more loans.

The players

Luther Davis

A former defensive tackle at the University of Alabama who is accused of using disguises like wigs and makeup to impersonate NFL players and defraud investors out of nearly $20 million.

CJ Evins

An accomplice of Luther Davis who prosecutors say executed the scheme with him, and is also charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold those who engage in such brazen fraud accountable for their actions.”

— U.S. Attorney's Office

What’s next

Davis and Evins are scheduled to return to court on April 27 to enter a guilty plea in the case.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing threat of sophisticated identity theft and financial fraud schemes targeting high-profile individuals like professional athletes. It underscores the need for stronger safeguards and oversight in the sports and finance industries to protect against such scams.