In recent years, college sports have changed a lot, mostly because of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. These deals are shaking up how college athletics work and, honestly, even the world of pro sports isn’t immune.
Top college athletes can now stick around longer, thanks to the money NIL brings in. It’s wild—choices that would’ve seemed impossible a few years ago are now on the table.
Former NFL agent Ben Dogra talked to Fox News Digital about Oregon quarterback Dante Moore. Moore decided to stay in college instead of heading for the NFL Draft, and NIL deals played a big part in that call.
The Impact of NIL Deals on College Football
Since NIL became a thing, college athletes have had more ways than ever to make money while still in school. Players can pull in real income without needing to go pro right away.
Dogra pointed to Dante Moore as a perfect example. Moore, Oregon’s quarterback, could’ve been a top NFL Draft pick but chose to stay put.
Dante Moore’s Decision to Stay in College
Dante Moore’s choice to return to Oregon instead of declaring for the draft says a lot about NIL’s influence. Some mock drafts had him as high as No. 2 overall, but he stuck with college.
Dogra guessed that a big NIL deal, maybe with help from Oregon’s major donor Phil Knight (of Nike fame), helped sway Moore’s decision. NIL deals can offer enough financial security that going pro right away isn’t always the obvious move.
Financial Considerations for College Athletes
For a lot of athletes, the money from staying in college can actually beat what they’d get in the NFL, especially if they’re mid-round prospects. Dogra said some third- and fourth-rounders might earn more from NIL than from a rookie contract.
Now, college athletes can slow down and really think through their options. It’s a different world.
Case Studies: Quinn Ewers and the Changing Dynamics
Take Quinn Ewers, now a quarterback for the Miami Dolphins. His story shows just how complicated these decisions have gotten in the NIL era.
Ewers, an All-American, went for the NFL Draft instead of transferring, even though he reportedly could’ve made $7 million through NIL. He was drafted in the seventh round and signed a four-year, $4.3 million deal—less than what NIL might’ve offered him.
Dogra pointed out that late-round picks like Ewers have more uncertainty and fewer chances in the NFL. That’s a real risk to weigh.
Early Agent-Player Interactions
NIL has also changed how agents and players connect. Athletes still can’t officially sign with agents until after their last college game, but now, agents and marketing reps often start talking to players while they’re still in high school.
This early contact makes things even more complicated for athletes and their families. There’s a lot to consider, and it’s happening sooner than ever.
Risks and Rewards for Agents
For agents, getting in early can be a big win if the player makes it and stays loyal. But there’s always the chance the relationship fizzles and the player leaves for someone else.
Recruiting has gotten more competitive and, honestly, a bit unpredictable. Agents have to be careful not to overplay their hand.
The Broader Implications of NIL Deals
NIL isn’t just about individual athletes or their agents. It’s changing the structure of college sports, how pro teams plan, and even the job security of general managers.
Dogra mentioned that first-round NFL picks get more chances because GMs’ careers can ride on those choices. If you’re a late-round pick, though, it’s a tougher road. That makes the decision to stick with college and take the NIL money even more tempting.
Future Trends in College and Professional Sports
As NIL keeps evolving, it’s bound to shape the future of both college and pro sports. More athletes might stay in school longer, which could change who shows up in the NFL Draft.
College programs and pro teams are going to have to adapt. It’s a new game, and nobody’s quite sure where it’s headed.
The advent of NIL deals has shaken up college sports in ways nobody saw coming. Athletes now have fresh opportunities and face choices that just didn’t exist before.
Dante Moore’s story, along with Ben Dogra’s take, shows just how much these deals can steer an athlete’s path. It’s wild to think about how quickly things have changed.
Want to dig deeper? Check out the full interview with Ben Dogra on Fox News Digital’s sports coverage.
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