College football is changing fast, and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals are now a huge part of what makes major programs tick. Michigan State is right in the thick of it, with a few players set to cash in big this season.
This season, redshirt freshman Charles Taplin, UConn transfer Ben Murawski, and starting quarterback Alessio Milivojevic are all in the spotlight. They’ve got the skills, the eligibility, and the visibility—so it’s not a stretch to think they’ll become valuable assets for the Spartans.
Charles Taplin: The Rising Star
Redshirt freshman Charles Taplin is looking more and more like a breakout candidate at Michigan State. He came in as a lower-tier three-star recruit and didn’t see the field much last year—just four games, with a single eight-yard catch.
But you know what? His spring performance turned some heads. He was getting plenty of first-team reps and made a real impression during the open scrimmage in April.
If Taplin grabs a starting role, his NIL value could shoot up. Having eligibility through 2029 doesn’t hurt either; that’s a lot more runway than a transfer with one or two years left.
Let’s be honest: starters get paid more. If Taplin can lock down a spot, sponsors will notice, and he’ll have a shot at some real money.
Ben Murawski: The Blindside Protector
Ben Murawski came over from UConn and instantly helped shore up Michigan State’s offensive line. His transfer is a win for his wallet, too—UConn football just doesn’t draw the same NIL dollars as a Big Ten school.
Now, Murawski is set to start at left tackle. That’s the guy who protects the quarterback’s blindside, arguably one of the most thankless but vital jobs on the field.
He’ll be under the microscope all season. If he keeps the quarterback upright, his own NIL value goes up—maybe not as flashy as a quarterback, but sponsors do pay attention.
Michigan State clearly made the offensive line a priority this offseason. Murawski’s role is going to be a big storyline, and if he delivers, he’ll be a name to watch for NIL deals.
Alessio Milivojevic: The Quarterback’s Journey
Alessio Milivojevic is stepping in as the Spartans’ starting quarterback, and that alone puts a target on his back for NIL opportunities. He’s not commanding top-end money yet, but if he sticks as the full-time QB1, his value could jump.
Last season, he took over for Aidan Chiles late in the year. Chiles was in the $1-2 million NIL range, so there’s definitely room for Milivojevic to grow.
His eligibility runs through 2028. That’s a lot of time to make his mark, and if he plays well, Michigan State will want to keep him around with bigger deals.
Quarterbacks are tough to replace, and a strong season could make Milivojevic one of the most valuable players on the roster—both on the field and in the NIL market.
The Broader Impact of NIL Deals
NIL deals have completely changed college sports. Players can finally cash in on their abilities and popularity, which makes things more competitive—and honestly, more interesting.
For Michigan State, being able to offer good NIL packages is crucial if they want to attract and keep top players. The Big Ten isn’t getting any easier, so every advantage counts.
Bringing in and investing in guys like Taplin, Murawski, and Milivojevic isn’t just about this season. It’s about building something that lasts. If these players step up, they could be the backbone of the Spartans for years to come.
Conclusion
Michigan State’s in the thick of the NIL era, and honestly, it’s a lot to keep up with. The spotlight’s on Charles Taplin, Ben Murawski, and Alessio Milivojevic right now.
How they perform this season? That could shape not just the team’s record, but their own financial futures too.
There’s a real possibility for Michigan State to stay right in the mix by making smart moves with NIL deals. It’s a big opportunity—maybe even a turning point for the Spartans if things go their way.
If you’re curious and want to dig deeper into what these players might actually earn, check out the full article on Sports Illustrated.
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