Trump, Lawmakers Debate NIL Reform in College Sports

President Donald Trump is considering an executive order to address Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) issues in college athletics after meeting with former Alabama coach Nick Saban, who criticized the current system as unsustainable and unfair. Lawmakers, including Sen. Tommy Tuberville and Rep. Michael Baumgartner, have proposed federal legislation targeting revenue sharing, transfer rules, and transparency in athlete compensation. Tuberville warned that unchecked NIL policies have led to instability in college sports and threaten the viability of non-revenue sports. The issue has received bipartisan attention, but many lawmakers doubt an executive order alone can resolve the complexities, suggesting congressional action is necessary. The debate underscores the urgent need for uniform national rules and greater oversight to prevent college sports from becoming excessively commercialized or resembling minor leagues.