NIL refers to the rights of athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness. Before 2021, NCAA rules made it almost impossible for student-athletes to make money from endorsements, autographs, or social media. 

Then came a tidal wave of change. The NCAA finally allowed athletes to sign endorsement deals, make paid appearances, and even launch their own brands. NIL deals aren’t about getting paid to play—athletes aren’t employees—but it lets them make money in other ways.

HOW DOES NIL WORK? 

NIL deals can range from TikTok sponsorships to endorsement campaigns. It also includes selling personal branded merch. There are rules surrounding NIL deals, though—and they vary depending on where you play. States with NIL laws might have specific guidelines, like disclosing contracts to schools or banning certain endorsements (like gambling or alcohol). 

In states without NIL laws, colleges create their own policies, which can lead to some big differences in how athletes cash in.