Former Alabama Lineman Charged in $20M NFL Player Impersonation Loan Scam

Luther Davis allegedly used disguises to defraud lenders by posing as Xavier McKinney, Michael Penix Jr., and David Njoku.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:06pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a fake driver's license with a blurry, distorted image of an unidentifiable NFL player's face, conveying the gritty, investigative aesthetic of the Weegee style.A fraudulent driver's license used in an alleged $20 million loan scam targeting NFL players exposes the vulnerability of high-profile athletes to identity theft.Savannah Today

A former University of Alabama football player has been charged with orchestrating a $20 million loan fraud scheme by impersonating several current NFL players, including Xavier McKinney, Michael Penix Jr., and David Njoku. Luther Davis allegedly used wigs, makeup, and fake IDs to pose as the athletes during loan closings, defrauding lenders out of millions.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing problem of identity theft and financial fraud targeting high-profile athletes. It also raises concerns about the vulnerability of the loan industry to sophisticated scams involving impersonation and fabricated documentation.

The details

According to the criminal information document, Davis and his partner CJ Evins obtained at least 13 loans totaling $19.845 million by impersonating the NFL players. They allegedly fabricated financial statements, emails, and even used a fake Georgia driver's license with Njoku's photo to secure a $4.025 million loan. Davis also reportedly wore a wig and makeup to impersonate Penix Jr. during meetings.

  • The scheme took place over a 17-month period starting around May 2023.
  • Davis was charged on April 15, 2026.

The players

Luther Davis

A former University of Alabama defensive lineman who was part of the Crimson Tide's 2009-10 national championship team.

CJ Evins

Davis' partner in the alleged $20 million loan fraud scheme.

Xavier McKinney

A former Alabama safety whose identity was allegedly impersonated by Davis to secure a $4.35 million loan.

Michael Penix Jr.

The Atlanta Falcons quarterback whose identity was allegedly impersonated by Davis to secure a $3.3 million loan.

David Njoku

The Cleveland Browns tight end whose identity was allegedly impersonated by Davis to secure a $4.025 million loan.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Davis and Evins plan to plead guilty to the charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.

The takeaway

This elaborate impersonation scheme underscores the need for tighter security measures and fraud detection in the lending industry to protect professional athletes and other high-profile individuals from having their identities exploited.