What are the cons of NIL?

By Jason Bolton June 16, 2023 11:12

Photo by 2adays.com

Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights have been a hot topic in the world of college athletics since the NCAA changed its policy in June 2021, allowing college athletes to earn money from marketing deals. While this change has been viewed as a positive step forward in providing athletes with their deserved compensation, there are also potential drawbacks to consider.

One of the biggest cons of NIL is the potential for imbalances between players. Some athletes may have a better chance of receiving deals than others, leading to inequities within teams and even different sports. This can create tension and resentment among teammates, and it may also exacerbate issues of inequality in college sports.

Another concern is the potential for academic prioritization. With the opportunity to earn money from NIL deals, some athletes may prioritize their marketing activities over their academic responsibilities. This could lead to lower academic performance and even eligibility issues, as athletes may struggle to balance their marketing commitments with their coursework and other responsibilities.

There is also the issue of egotistical behavior and distractions. Some athletes may become overly focused on their marketing opportunities, leading to arrogance and a lack of focus on team goals. This can be particularly problematic in team sports, where a lack of cohesion and focus can have significant negative impacts on performance.

Another potential drawback of NIL is the impact it may have on the transfer portal. With the opportunity to earn money from marketing deals, some athletes may prioritize schools that offer better opportunities for NIL deals. This could lead to a shift in the balance of power between schools, and it may also create more instability in the world of college athletics.

Finally, there is the issue of gender equity. While male athletes in high-profile sports are likely to receive the majority of NIL money, female athletes and those in less high-profile sports may struggle to secure lucrative deals. This could lead to Title IX and gender-based lawsuit issues, as female athletes may argue that they are not being given the same opportunities as their male counterparts.

It is important to note that there are also potential benefits to NIL for college athletes. For example, NIL deals could provide much-needed financial assistance for athletes who rely on financial aid to attend college. Additionally, social media presence can potentially lead to high earning potential for athletes who are able to leverage their personal brands effectively.

Despite these potential benefits, it is up to individual athletes to weigh up the pros and cons of NIL for themselves. It is important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks of NIL, including the potential for imbalances between players, academic prioritization, egotistical behavior and distractions, the impact on the transfer portal, and gender equity issues.

Working with an agent can be a helpful way for athletes to navigate the complex landscape of NIL regulations and contracts. However, it is important to choose an agent carefully, as some agents may charge high commission fees or even jeopardize an athlete's eligibility.

In conclusion, while the NCAA's policy change on NIL has opened up new opportunities for college athletes to earn money from marketing deals, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. Athletes must carefully weigh up the pros and cons of NIL for themselves, and work with agents and counselors to ensure they make smart choices and retain their eligibility. It will be interesting to see how NIL rights continue to develop in college athletics, and how athletes and universities navigate the complex landscape of regulations and contracts.