Never sign a NIL contract without reviewing these critical points. This comprehensive checklist helps you identify red flags, understand key terms, and protect your rights before committing.
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Signing the wrong NIL contract can cost you money, rights, and even your eligibility. Don't skip this step.
Bad contracts can give brands unlimited rights to use your image forever, even after graduation.
Vague payment terms can leave you doing extra work for free or waiting months to get paid.
Non-compliant contracts can jeopardize your NCAA eligibility and end your college career.
Go through each item carefully. If anything is unclear or concerning, consult an attorney before signing.
Verify your name, the brand's legal business name, and contact information are correct and complete.
Confirm the contract length and exact dates. Watch for auto-renewal clauses that could extend beyond what you want.
Ensure all deliverables are specifically listed (number of posts, appearances, photos, etc.) to prevent scope creep.
Check if usage is limited to certain regions or worldwide. Broader rights should = higher payment.
Verify the exact dollar amount, not just "to be determined." Get it in writing!
When will you be paid? (Upfront, milestone-based, or completion?) How? (Check, direct deposit, PayPal?)
Who pays for travel, production costs, or props? Get expense responsibilities in writing.
What happens if the brand doesn't pay on time? Look for late fees or interest clauses.
Who owns the photos/videos? You should retain ownership, only licensing usage rights to the brand.
How long can the brand use your content? Avoid "perpetual" or "in perpetuity" unless heavily compensated.
Where can they use your content? (Social media only? Print ads? TV commercials?) Each should be specified.
Do you get to approve content before it's posted? This protects your reputation and image.
Are you blocked from working with competitors? How broadly is "competitor" defined? (e.g., all beverages or just energy drinks?)
If you can't work with others, you should be paid significantly more. Is the exclusivity premium fair?
Can you work with competitors after the contract ends? Avoid long non-compete periods.
How can either party end the contract early? What notice is required? Are there penalties?
Who's responsible if someone sues? Make sure you're not taking on unreasonable liability for the brand's actions.
Does the contract explicitly state compliance with NCAA, state, and school rules? This protects your eligibility.
How are disagreements handled? Look for mediation/arbitration clauses and which state's laws apply.
If you see any of these in a contract, proceed with extreme caution or walk away entirely.
"TBD" or "to be negotiated" payments are red flags. Get everything in writing upfront.
Brands using your image forever for a one-time payment? Unacceptable unless extremely well compensated.
"Additional services as requested" or vague deliverables lead to you working for free.
You need an exit strategy. Contracts without termination clauses trap you indefinitely.
Can't work with anyone else period? That kills your earning potential. Narrow it down.
Contracts that automatically renew without your consent or notice trap you in bad deals.
You're liable for everything, but the brand has no accountability? That's not fair.
"This offer expires in 24 hours!" is a manipulation tactic. Take time to review properly.
Contracts that don't acknowledge NCAA rules put YOUR eligibility at risk, not theirs.
If you see multiple red flags or don't understand key terms, consult a sports attorney before signing. A $300 legal review can save you from a $10,000+ mistake.
Find a Sports AttorneyGet answers to common questions about NIL contract review.