NIL glossary
What is group licensing?
Group licensing is an NIL deal in which a company licenses the names and likenesses of many athletes together, typically for products like video games, trading cards or apparel, instead of signing each athlete separately.
On this page
In detail
Group licensing deals usually pay each participating athlete a share. In college, a group licensing arrangement with an associated entity must still specify the licensing categories and how each athlete's NIL will be used to avoid warehousing concerns. In high school, Tennessee's association requires deals to be individual rather than a team-wide contract.
Frequently asked questions
Can a whole team sign one NIL deal?
In college, group licensing is common. Some high school associations, such as Tennessee's, require individual deals.
Sources
- Frequently Asked Questions — College Sports Commission
- Rules and Policies — College Sports Commission
This is general information, not legal advice. NIL rules differ by state, school, association and sport, and they change often. Check the official sources linked on this page and talk with your school's compliance office, your state association or a licensed attorney before you sign anything.

