Why college athletes desperately need NIL representation now

Imagine signing a six-figure deal at 19—without understanding what you’re giving up in return.

That’s the reality for many college athletes in today’s NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) and transfer portal era. What looks like opportunity on the surface can quickly spiral into regret without experienced representation.

The Transfer Portal Isn’t Just About Playing Time Anymore

The NCAA transfer portal is no longer just a vehicle for athletes chasing starting spots. It’s a marketplace, increasingly influenced by NIL incentives. In 2024 alone, over 2,100 Division I football players entered the portal—many chasing not just better programs but better paydays.

Take the case of former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava. After disputes over NIL payments and navigating SEC transfer restrictions, he ended up at UCLA reportedly for a deal worth less than his original. His representation? A family friend, not a certified agent or attorney. This isn’t just a fumble—it’s a warning. Without legal expertise, athletes can be locked into unfavorable contracts, lose eligibility, or forfeit future earning potential.

NIL Deals Often Come With Hidden Traps

Many NIL contracts look shiny up front but are riddled with restrictive clauses. Some agreements grant third parties lifetime rights to an athlete’s image, or limit future endorsements. Worse, each state has different NIL laws, and deals that are legal in Texas might break compliance rules in Florida.

And it’s not just stars who face risks. Smaller athletes often lack access to vetted agents and are more vulnerable to predatory offers. NIL income is taxable, and crossing state lines through the portal can trigger unexpected liabilities. Without a lawyer reviewing the terms, these deals can do more harm than good.

Invest in Protection Before It’s Too Late

In today’s high-stakes college sports landscape, representation isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Athletes must treat their future like a business, because that’s exactly what it is. Legal support can protect their brand, income, and eligibility. Before signing anything or entering the portal, athletes should have one play ready: call a professional.