NIL Blog Beliefs

At NIL Blog, this is what we believe:

• Athlete Compensation: Athletes should be able to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL) and be directly paid by schools for their contributions.

• Monetization Window: Top-tier athletes have a limited window to monetize their talents. The NCAA should play a supportive role in helping them develop and maximize their earning potential.

• Academic Priorities: Academic success remains essential. Any reform should include clear, supported pathways for athletes to achieve their educational goals.

• Revenue vs. Amateur Distinction: There’s a clear difference between revenue-generating (RevGen) athletes—primarily in the Power 4—and those in more amateur settings (e.g., Ivy League). The NCAA should acknowledge this and create distinct paths for athletes to opt into either model.

• Fixing NIL: While NIL is a positive concept in spirit, it has quickly become a loophole-ridden system resembling “pay-for-play.” Stronger guardrails and governance are needed to ensure integrity, avoiding a system akin to PACs and Super PACs.

• Coaching Instability: Coaches are facing increasing instability, as athletes can leave for large NIL deals without contractual obligations. This uncertainty directly impacts coaching careers and their families.

• NCAA’s Role: The NCAA is no longer well-positioned to lead the next era of college sports and should not be in the driver’s seat of future structural changes.

• Power 4 Influence: The Power 4 conferences wield the most influence due to their control of major television contracts.

• ADs as Key Stakeholders: Athletic Directors hold the most comprehensive understanding of the intersection between sports, academics, finances, and operations. They must be central to shaping any future model.

• Role of Government: While government intervention may help force change, college athletics should proactively lead the reform process to retain control and shape its own future.

• Cultural Importance: Sports are a vital part of American culture, and it's essential that we pursue meaningful, positive change for their long-term health.

Through this blog, you'll see these themes shine through in everything we write.