Off the Guardrails: Opportunities and Caveats for Name Image Likeness and the Student Athlete Influencer

The landscape of college athletics is undergoing a seismic shift with the advent of Name, Image, and Likeness (“NIL”) opportunities for student-athletes. In Off the Guardrails: Opportunities and Caveats for Name Image Likeness and the Student Athlete Influencer, Professor Maureen A. Weston examines the evolving terrain, tracing the journey from the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (“NCAA’s”) rigid amateurism policies to the current era of NIL legislation and its implications. This Article navigates the complex intersection of athlete empowerment, entrepreneurial ventures, and regulatory challenges, shedding light on the multifaceted opportunities and risks for athletes in the burgeoning NIL market. Delving into the heart of the matter, Weston dissects the dynamics of NIL dealmaking, unveiling the potential windfalls and pitfalls awaiting collegiate student-athletes. From the allure of financial independence to the specter of predatory practices and regulatory ambiguities, the author uncovers the intricate tapestry of concerns surrounding the NIL framework. Drawing on insights from legal, regulatory, and ethical perspectives, Off the Guardrails offers a roadmap for those navigating this uncharted territory, exploring avenues for policy reform, regulatory harmonization, and athlete welfare safeguards in the quest for a balanced and equitable future for student-athlete influencers.