College athletics just stepped into a new era — and there’s no going back.

The House v. NCAA settlement isn’t just a payout — it’s a full-blown restructuring of how college sports work. Athletes from 2016 to 2024 are finally getting compensated for their NIL rights, and starting July 1, schools can legally cut paychecks to players.

This is no longer about free gear and influencer deals. We’re talking revenue-sharing contracts, NIL clearinghouses, and a brand-new enforcement agency built to police the chaos.

Parents, athletes, coaches — pay attention. The amateur model is dead, and if you’re not reading every word of these deals, someone else is profiting off your kid's future.

If you're a student-athlete entering the world of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, you're not just an athlete anymore—you're a brand.

That means contracts matter. A lot.

And while it’s tempting to focus on the money or the free gear, the fine print is where your rights—and risks—really live. Here's what every athlete (and parent) should look for before signing an NIL agreement.

The House v. NCAA settlement proposes a new NIL deal approval process called "NIL Go," but raises many legal and logistical questions about enforcement and fair-market value assessment.

President Trump spoke at the University of Alabama, revealed plans to create a college sports commission to address NIL issues, with Nick Saban expected to be heavily involved.

North Carolina high school athletes can profit from name, image, and likeness deals after a court ruling found the education board overstepped its authority in banning such agreements.

The NCAA and power conferences are revising roster limit rules to protect certain athletes, seeking approval from Judge Wilken for a settlement that could lead to significant athlete revenue sharing.

Texas House representatives have filed bills allowing high school athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness, with specific age and eligibility requirements, amidst concerns about amateurism and athlete burnout.

The NCAA transfer portal is now a key part of college sports, with many student-athletes using it to find better opportunities, playing time, or visibility. More athletes are also seeking financial benefits through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.

Wisconsin high school student athletes will soon be able to participate in name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities.

High school athletes in Wyoming might soon be allowed to earn money from their athletic performances.

Judge Wilken indicated that she would deny settlement approval unless the roster limit changes are implemented.

he NCAA’s Division I board of directors approved changes that will begin if a settlement is granted. They conditionally agreed to eliminate over 150 rules.