In the new age of college football, understanding how to utilize players' name, image and likeness opportunities is key to building a successful roster. Texas football coach Steve Sarkisian understands this, according to a conversation he had about NIL strategy with former Texas quarterback Colt McCoy on his show, Clean Pocket.
"I think NIL has been good for the University of Texas," Sarkisian said. "I think we've managed it the right way, I think we're fair with our players."
Considering the talent they've landed in recruiting and their College Football Playoff success, the Longhorns have plenty of high-value players on their roster who warrant big NIL deals. Texas quarterback Arch Manning, 247Sports Composite's top-ranked recruit in 2023, recently signed one with Red Bull and boasts an estimated NIL value of $6.5 million, according to On3. Texas edge Colin Simmons, the Shawn Alexander Freshman of the Year, sits at around $1.5 million.
Data from USA TODAY shows the University of Texas as the second-highest grossing athletic department in terms of revenue, bringing in $239 million last year — only bested by Ohio State’s $251 million. That doesn't mean they can afford to roll the Brink's truck out to every player on the roster.
"When we think a guy is overpriced, ...
