NIL glossary
What is an NIL deal?
An NIL deal is an agreement in which a business or person pays an athlete, in money, products or services, to use the athlete's name, image or likeness to promote something, such as a social media post, an appearance, an ad or a licensed product.
On this page
In detail
NIL deals pay for promotional work, not for playing. For NCAA Division I athletes, third-party deals worth $600 or more in total must be reported to NIL Go within five business days. High school deals follow the state association's rules. See NIL contracts for what a good deal includes.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as an NIL deal?
Any agreement to be paid, in cash or in kind, for the commercial use of your name, image or likeness, such as posts, appearances, ads, autographs or licensed merchandise.
Sources
- Student-Athlete NIL Deals — College Sports Commission
- Glossary — 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.