The Risks of NIL Agents and the Importance of Fiduciary Advice

The NIL era has opened doors for college athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness like never before. For many, this is a dream come true, earning money while still in school, building a personal brand, and laying the groundwork for future opportunities. But along with that opportunity comes a harsh reality. The people surrounding you can either protect your career or put it at risk.

Stories are emerging every month of athletes who trusted the wrong advisors, mentors, or “agents” and paid the price. A guard for a high-level D1 program, for instance, was encouraged by a so-called mentor to transfer schools, chasing the promise of a bigger NIL deal. The result was less playing time, missed scholarship opportunities, and deals that never fully materialized. In another case, a young athlete gave a significant cut of an NIL contract to someone claiming to be an “agent,” only to realize the guidance they received offered minimal value relative to what they paid.

Understanding the Reality of NIL Agents

These situations are not rare. Many people operating in the NIL space are not certified, not accountable to any professional standards, and not legally required to act in your best interest. Some will promise connections, exposure, or instant money, but the real cost can be hidden in steep fees, poor advice, or lost opportunities. For athletes balancing academics, training, and personal development, the stakes are high. One wrong decision early in your career can echo for years.

So how do you protect yourself? The answer is building a team with clear priorities and fiduciary guidance at its core. A fiduciary advisor is legally and ethically obligated to put your interests first. This means your financial professional will evaluate deals objectively, help you understand taxes and long-term implications, and ensure that the other members of your support team, whether agents, mentors, or advisors, are truly adding value rather than taking advantage.

Asking the Right Questions

Start by asking hard questions: Who are they? What are their credentials? How are they compensated? Are they helping you for your benefit or their own? Look for advisors who provide transparency, verifiable experience, and a proven track record with athletes navigating NIL deals. Surround yourself with professionals who prioritize your long-term career and financial health, not just immediate earnings.

High school athletes entering this space should also be proactive. Understanding contracts, percentages, and the difference between legitimate guidance and opportunistic schemes will prepare you to make smart decisions when the stakes are higher in college. For current college athletes, reassessing your team now could save you money, playing time, and future opportunities.

Taking Control of Your NIL Success

NIL is not going away. The money, the deals, and the visibility will continue to grow, and so will the complexity of the decisions you face. The athletes who thrive will be the ones with trusted, experienced advisors in their corner. If you want to make sure your team is working for you, not against you, reach out today. We provide fiduciary guidance to athletes, helping you evaluate deals, structure your team, and make choices beyond financial planning that protect your career while maximizing your long-term success.