In this new era of college athletics shaped by NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), there’s a great deal of skepticism surrounding its impact. Many college coaches have voiced strong opinions on how NIL can either benefit or harm college sports—and a lot of what they’ve said makes total sense. One common concern is the competitive imbalance created when universities have access to high-profile alumni, such as the University of Oregon with Nike co-founder Phil Knight.

Below is a breakdown of the pros and cons of NIL, along with explanations of why each point is seen as either a benefit or a drawback:

Pros:

• Financial Compensation: NIL gives student-athletes the chance to earn money when their university markets them or when they secure deals independently. This can be especially impactful for students from underprivileged backgrounds, providing financial support and easing the cost of living while attending college.
• Brand Building: Learning to build a personal brand is a valuable skill—not only for athletes but for any college student. Developing a personal identity and voice early can lead to long-term career opportunities, especially for athletes whose playing careers may be cut short.
• Business and Life Skills: NIL introduces student-athletes to real-world experiences like contract negotiation, tax filing, and financial literacy. This early exposure can be critical, especially as athletes prepare for professional careers where financial decisions carry high stakes.
• Opportunities Beyond Sports: Most college athletes won’t turn professional in their sport. NIL allows them to benefit financially during their college years, potentially easing student debt and helping them launch careers in other fields with financial stability.
• Support for Families: For athletes who do not receive full-ride scholarships, NIL offers an alternative financial path. Even with smaller scholarships, student-athletes can still afford college through NIL income, reducing financial burdens on their families.

Cons:

• Unequal Opportunities: The majority of major NIL deals go to football and men’s basketball players. While standout athletes in other sports sometimes land strong deals, most are not in the same position.
• Increased Pressure: NIL deals often imply a level of star status, which can put extra pressure on athletes to perform both athletically and academically.
• Short-Term Focus: With some NIL deals worth hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars, there’s a concern that some athletes might prioritize quick money over long-term goals like education.
• Locker Room Tensions: When one player earns significantly more than others, it can create resentment or tension within a team.
• Risk of Exploitation: Many haven’t signed contracts before or navigated legal terms. Without the right advisors or legal counsel, they’re at risk of being taken advantage of by agents, sponsors, or companies.

These are just a few of the many pros and cons associated with NIL. The wide range of perspectives on the issue highlights how complex and evolving this topic really is. Still, one thing is clear: NIL has permanently altered the landscape of college sports.

Eighteen-year-old athletes can now earn money in ways that weren’t possible—or legal—when stars like Reggie Bush were in college. NIL is no longer just a headline; it’s part of the everyday conversation in college athletics. And it’s here to stay.