College football’s changed dramatically with the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal. These shifts have tossed a whole new set of challenges and possibilities into the mix for players, coaches, and programs.
NIL was meant to fairly compensate players. But it’s also brought some unexpected headaches that nobody really saw coming.
Let’s look at some of the problems popping up—especially how NIL is influencing player choices about the NFL Draft, eligibility tangles, and the growing pile of lawsuits against the NCAA.
The Evolution of College Football: NIL and the Transfer Portal
Paying college football players used to be a heated debate. A lot of folks worried that losing the *amateur* label would wreck the sport.
But now, with NIL and the transfer portal, the whole scene feels different. Players hop between programs more often, and the money on the table can sway their choices in big ways.
Schools with deep pockets are outpacing those with just a strong history. Some fans say the sport’s been *ruined*, but honestly, that’s a bit much.
Different doesn’t always mean worse, right? Maybe this new era will actually make things more interesting, with more teams having a real shot at winning.
From Amateur Status to Professional Dynamics
The move toward a more professional vibe in college football was expected, but it’s still kind of wild to see. When NIL got the green light, not many thought we’d end up with players staying in college instead of bolting for the NFL.
Used to be, top players would leave for the NFL even if they landed in tough situations, because the money was just too good to pass up. Now some college stars make as much—or more—than NFL rookies, so that rush to declare for the draft isn’t what it used to be.
Financial Incentives and Draft Decisions
The money game for college athletes is on a whole new level. Take Arch Manning ($7M), Jeremiah Smith ($4M), and LaNorris Sellers ($4M)—those numbers match or beat what a lot of NFL rookies take home.
Since the NFL set slotted rookie salaries back in 2011, only the very top picks make more than the biggest NIL earners. That’s got some players rethinking their draft options, staying in college longer for both growth and a steady paycheck.
The Case of Arch Manning
Look at Arch Manning. He’s got two years of eligibility left and decided not to jump into the 2026 NFL Draft.
Sticking around gives him more time to polish his skills, and the money’s about as good as being a top-10 NFL pick. It’s not just him—more top prospects are following this path, and it’s changing the usual college-to-NFL story.
Eligibility Issues and Legal Battles
NIL’s ripple effects keep spreading. Now, eligibility disputes are cropping up, with players taking the NCAA to court to stretch out their college careers.
These cases raise tough questions about how NCAA rules might need to shift, and who’s really in charge here—the players or the governing body?
Notable Legal Cases
Some legal fights have already grabbed headlines. In 2024, Diego Pavia sued the NCAA over JUCO years counting against Division 1 eligibility.
Joey Aguilar’s chasing an eighth year on the field through a lawsuit, and Trinidad Chambliss just won his case, so he’ll suit up for Ole Miss in 2026. It’s a tug-of-war between players wanting to maximize their time and the NCAA’s rulebook.
The Future of College Football
The NCAA’s got a lot on its plate as college football keeps evolving. With lawsuits piling up, it’s clear the current setup isn’t working for everyone.
Something’s got to give—players should get a fair shake and room to develop, but the sport still needs some structure to stay intact.
Potential Solutions
So, what could help fix this mess?
- Revising Eligibility Rules: Maybe the NCAA loosens up on eligibility, letting players stick around longer if that’s what they want.
- Enhanced Financial Regulations: Tighter rules for NIL deals could keep things from getting out of hand and level the playing field a bit.
- Improved Player Support: Giving players better advice and support as they figure out their careers might cut down on all the legal drama.
Conclusion
NIL and the transfer portal have totally shaken up college football. There are new opportunities, sure, but a lot of headaches too.
Players are figuring out how to make the most of this landscape. Meanwhile, the NCAA is still scrambling to keep up with eligibility questions and money issues.
Will there ever be a perfect balance? Hard to say. But if the sport can support its players and still feel like college football, maybe that’s enough.
Curious about the messier side of NIL? Check out the full article on Sporting News.
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