Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights have reshaped college athletics in just a few short years. Since the NCAA opened the door for student-athletes to monetize their NIL in 2021, states have stepped in to define how those rights operate in practice. As of 2025, roughly 32 states have enacted NIL-specific laws, while the remaining states rely on NCAA guidance and school-level policies.
This state-by-state approach has created a patchwork regulatory environment. In states with NIL statutes, athletes and universities must comply with state-specific rules governing disclosure, conflicts with school sponsorships, and the use of agents. In states without NIL laws, universities are left to design their own policies, often resulting in different standards across schools, conferences, and regions.
Despite these differences, most NIL laws share common themes:
• Athletes are permitted to earn compensation tied to their name, image, and likeness
• Disclosure of NIL agreements is commonly required
• Conflicts with institutional sponsorships are often restricted
• Guardrails exist around representation and contract practices
While these laws have expanded athlete opportunities, the lack of uniformity has also introduced confusion and compliance risk, particularly for athletes who transfer, schools that recruit nationally, and brands operating across multiple states.
At Rage Concepts, we believe the next phase of NIL reform should focus on harmonization. A more consistent, transparent framework (whether through aligned state standards or thoughtful federal guidance) would better serve student-athletes, universities, and partners alike. Harmonization does not mean limiting opportunity. It means reducing friction, increasing clarity, and creating a fairer NIL system for everyone involved.
As NIL continues to evolve, Rage Concepts remains committed to advocating for policies that protect athletes while promoting clarity, consistency, and long-term sustainability across college sports.