What is NIL?
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) refers to a student-athlete’s ability to be compensated for the use of their identity.
It is not a paycheck for playing a sport. It is permission for athletes to participate in opportunities that already existed—marketing, promotions, appearances, or content creation—while maintaining collegiate eligibility.
Endorsements, Appearances, Personal Brand Monetization.
Pay-for-play, Recruiting inducements, Performance bonuses.
Compliance with NCAA, State, and Institutional rules.
7 Common Mistakes
Most challenges come from moving too fast or trusting the wrong info.
NIL creates possibility, not entitlement. Many athletes will never receive compensation. Income depends on marketability and demand.
Verbal commitments are not contracts. Be cautious of informal guarantees or pressure to move quickly.
Visibility doesn't equal value. Not every offer aligns with long-term goals. Sometimes the best decision is declining.
Support is important; control is not. Acting without guidance can undermine athlete autonomy and create eligibility issues.
Short-term cash should not outweigh long-term consequences like "In Perpetuity" clauses.
Agreements tied to enrollment decisions or roster placement violate guidelines and create serious risk.
They vary widely in stability and purpose. Don't assume guaranteed support or long-term funding.
Understanding the Money
"Contracts matter more than headlines."
- Income varies widely.
- Depends on visibility & demand.
- Talent alone isn't enough.
"Income depends on visibility, marketability, compliance, and demand."
LLC vs. Sole Prop
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Sole Proprietorship
No liability protection. Personal assets at risk.
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Single-Member LLC
Liability protection. Allows for business write-offs.
When to Start?
Freshman
Focus on Grades & Sport
Junior
Clean up Socials & Learn Rules
Senior
Register w/ Eligibility Center & LLC?
College
Execute Deals & File Taxes
Responsible NIL Support
Support should create opportunity—not pressure.
Know what is allowed before acting to reduce risk.
Center the athlete. Listen before acting. Respect boundaries.
NIL is not a race. Rushing leads to regret.
When in doubt, pausing protects eligibility.
"The goal is to protect eligibility, preserve reputation, and support athletes beyond sport."
Social Media Audit
Brands (and coaches) are watching.
Scrub Old Posts
Business Email
Be Authentic
Killer Clauses
- "In Perpetuity" Owning your rights forever.
- "Exclusive Rights" Blocking other deals.
- "Morality Clause" (Broad) Allows them to cancel if you do something "controversial." Ensure this is defined narrowly.
What Are Collectives?
Independent entities supported by donors to facilitate NIL opportunities.
- Not athletic departments.
- Not uniform across schools.
- Do not guarantee compensation.
Agents?
Standard Commission: 10% - 20%
Warning Sign:
Avoid agents who ask for monthly retainers or fees upfront. They should only eat when you eat.
Speaking & Engagements
Educational sessions designed to bring clarity and alignment.
Explaining NIL practice, risks, misconceptions, and responsible support.
Universities, Parents, Alumni, Donors, and Conferences.
Clearer understanding, better questions, stronger support framework.
The Bigger Picture
NIL is one part of a larger ecosystem that includes education, development, and life beyond sport.
When understood, NIL is a tool. When misunderstood, it becomes a distraction.
