The Impact of NIL in College Sports

By Jayden Hernandez '26

College sports are practically unrecognizable compared to how they used to be—but is it for the better? In the modern era of college sports, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) has taken over. Athletes now have the opportunity to think more broadly about where they would like to go. Coaches and schools know how much has changed, and they know that if they don’t adapt to the times, they will get left behind.

The introduction of NIL is controversial. "Name, image, and likeness" are the three components that allow players to grow a brand of their own. Whether it is a highly recruited high school student or a college athlete looking for an opportunity, NIL deals are made to persuade players or ensure an athlete's future.

Some argue that NIL has always been a part of college sports and traditional recruiting, but it has only recently been established in its current form. In 2019, California saw the first major case of students being able to profit from their athletic ability. Athletes felt that if they were talented, they should be able to profit from their image and skill. During mid-2021, the Supreme Court passed a law allowing all college students to profit off NIL.

This new rule helped players compete in a more advanced way and allowed them to create their own influential spaces. Many students feel NIL can only be a positive; after all, who wouldn't want their hard work to be recognized?

For example, a softball student-athlete was interviewed by University of Florida reporters and said, “It’s been great to feel seen and have your hard work in a sport help in other parts of life. It’s really nice to use NIL on a resume as marketing experience.” This shows NIL being positive not only for her softball career but also by providing opportunities for future careers.

Like every other student, athletes face challenges. Some overcome them by teaching themselves about financial literacy or asking professionals for clarification. NIL has changed the game, and as it continues to evolve, so will the athletes who use it.