Understanding NIL: What Student Athletes Need to Know

In July 2021 the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) published new interim rules that will allow student athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness (NIL). While this is a big step forward for the NCAA and college athletics in general, it can be confusing for those unfamiliar with the concept. If you’re wondering what NIL means, how it works, and what student athletes need to know about it, look no further—we have all the answers.

What Is NIL?

At its core, NIL refers to any commercial or business use of an athlete’s name, image, or likeness. This includes such activities as endorsements of products or services; sponsorships; personal appearances; autograph signings; social media promotion; and selling merchandise featuring the athlete’s name or likeness.

In the past, student athletes have not been allowed to benefit financially from their NIL rights due to NCAA regulations. However, with recent changes to the NCAA policy and state laws —that climate has now changed. Read here regarding how NIL benefits student athletes.