The cat is out of the bag. It’s happening; college athletes can now profit off their name, appearance, and likeness, like any other sports professional. However, the governing body is still uncertain and yet to make a final call. But this will happen because you can’t prohibit athletes from signing endorsements, appearing in events, and getting paid for that. The king is making the move.
These are things any athlete does. Play the game and cash in the fame. Recently, Miami Hurricanes quarterback D’Eriq King appeared at The Wharf, which is well-known for hosting the likes of David Beckham and CeeLo Green. The only difference between them and the King was that they were paid for their presence.
Due to existing NCAA rules, athletes can’t be compensated for appearances. So all the autographs, photos, and poses by King were free of charge and any drink or meal was out of his pocket. Not anymore!
NCAA restrictions on athlete pay finally fell apart this year amid a protest against the association’s archaic amateurism model. Two dozen states have passed legislation governing compensation, with 14 of these taking effect on Thursday.
What Does It Mean For College Football Players?
The athletes are expected to jump into a billion-dollar industry this Thursday, hoping to cash in on it. For so long, businesses and big brands pumped money only into universities. Now, they’ll be exploring this untapped arena.
Players who had been negotiating contracts for weeks and months, including college basketball and football stars, have finally signed their contracts. Soon, there’ll be live public events and grand announcements.
This will open new avenues for players to cash in their fame while grabbing lucrative contracts. Also, it’ll be great for college football odds while these deals benefit players in the upcoming NFL draft.
Top 10 NFL 2022 Prospects From College Football
As college football kicks off another exciting season, let’s take a look at the latest class of top prospects for the 2022 NFL Draft.
- Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU
Due to his pedigree and playmaking skills, Stingley could end up being one of the best cornerback prospects ever. The combination of his length and quickness gives him the advantage. Despite his coverage weaknesses, he is an outstanding ballhawk.
- Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
It’s expected that Neal will excel as a blocking force in the NFL. He’s extremely athletic for such a large frame, agile enough to handle every type of pass rusher and powerful enough in the running game to outrun defenders.
- Spencer Rattler, QB, Oklahoma
This season, Rattler stands to become one of the country’s elite offensive prospects. Sporty and accurate, he has a natural gift for sports. He needs to improve his mental acuity and be a little stronger overall.
- Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
Known for his impressive skill set, Willis is the mashup of Zach Wilson and Trey Lance. Besides having top-notch athleticism, he is also blessed with a strong arm. His physical and mental toughness is also impressive.
- Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina
Howell is an able, experienced and accurate pocket passer. Despite his lack of dynamic athleticism, it would not be a surprise to see him as a mashup of Trevor Lawrence and Mac Jones.
- DeMarvin Leal, DT, Texas A&M
There’s nothing Leal can’t disrupt at the front and anywhere else in the line up. His strengths lie in either a 4-3 tackle or 3-4 end.
- Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon
He’s extraordinarily athletic in every way. A fantastic pass rusher and an agile pursuit man who covers a lot of ground. Aside from speed, he is underrated for his power.
- Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
Hamilton is a smart and physically fit person. It’s his instincts and athleticism that allow him to spot plays and react to them quickly to make plays all over the field, regardless of run and pass. One of the best safety prospects ever, he’s complete and intimidating.
- Jaxson Kirkland, OT, Washington
A big athlete, Kirkland is well suited for pass protection. For the most part, he uses his hands and feet well together.
- Kedon Slovis, QB, USC
His level of football intelligence enables him to read any offense and defense with ease. A good decision maker, he also delivers accurate balls. It’ll be helpful for him to continue to improve his mechanics and footwork as he works on his arm and athleticism.
