NFL Draft Insights on College Athletes and NIL

The 2026 NFL Draft has wrapped up, and now teams are gearing up for rookie minicamps. These camps are a chance for teams to evaluate their fresh draft picks, while also keeping an eye on other invitees who might make the final roster.

One NFL executive recently shared thoughts on how the evolving landscape of college football—specifically the implications of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals—affects decisions during the draft. It seems that, with NIL contracts, college athletes are navigating new business choices as they pursue their professional dreams.

Under the current NIL framework, college players can secure endorsement deals, which can be financially lucrative. Consequently, some athletes who are on the fence about turning pro opt to remain in college. They believe that staying in school might not only boost their draft status but also allow them to continue earning through NIL opportunities.

Ryne Nutt, who serves as the vice president of player personnel for the Kansas City Chiefs, discussed this situation during a post-draft interview. When questioned about how NIL is shifting the dynamics at the college level, he noted, “It’s not necessarily wrong for players to stay in college. It gives them more time to develop. But it does seem like they’re coming out with more injuries or just more wear and tear.”

Nutt recognized that many of these young athletes are essentially making business decisions, weighing their options carefully as they evaluate their potential in the draft.

He emphasized how colleges are assisting these players by providing guidance on potential paths. “These kids are doing their homework, and schools are actively helping them make informed decisions,” he remarked.

This perspective from Nutt highlights how NFL teams are approaching the subject. Given that players are opting to stay in college for an extra year instead of entering the NFL, teams need to adjust their evaluations of prospects across all draft rounds. Nutt asserted, “Ultimately, we are not pressured to dictate whether these athletes should leave or stay—it’s their choice. For some, staying in school is the best move; for others, perhaps they should have declared for the draft sooner.”

The financial implications of these choices are significant. For instance, consider the case of Jermod McCoy, the 101st pick this year, who is set to earn $5.549 million over the next four years, which breaks down to about $1.388 million annually. This kind of salary can be a compelling reason for players considering entering the draft.

For those players aiming to be picked on the second day of the draft—or even in the first round—rookie contracts can be considerably higher. This makes it clear that their decisions are influenced not just by athletic aspirations, but also by substantial financial considerations.

Of course, the risks involved in football remain ever-present, whether at the collegiate or professional level. As the dynamics shift with more players opting to stay in school and capitalize on NIL deals, the pool of available talent for the draft continues to adjust accordingly.