Attorney
Yes—college players can get paid for ads, and it’s no longer just a dream or a gray area. Thanks to sweeping changes in NCAA policy and a growing legal movement across the country, student-athletes in Oregon, Nebraska, and beyond are now empowered to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL)—which includes appearing in advertisements.
If you’re a college athlete, a parent, or a business interested in working with athletes, this blog breaks down how ads fit into the NIL landscape, what rules apply in Oregon, and how Hughes Companies helps protect the interests of student-athletes entering endorsement deals.
What Changed? The NCAA’s NIL Reform
For decades, NCAA rules prohibited college athletes from earning money through personal brand deals. That changed on July 1, 2021, when the NCAA adopted a policy allowing student-athletes to profit from their NIL without jeopardizing their eligibility.
This monumental shift means college athletes can now:
- Appear in paid commercials or online ads
- Promote brands on social media
- License their image for video games or merchandise
- Participate in autograph signings or events
- Start their own businesses
And yes—they can absolutely get paid to be in advertisements.
NIL in Oregon and Nebraska: What Athletes Need to Know
Oregon and Nebraska are both leading the way in embracing NIL opportunities. Oregon and Nebraska each have separate NIL statutes. Both state statutes currently have proposed amendments that would change the NIL law in each state. Schools like the University of Oregon and the University of Nebraska have also developed internal policies and partnerships to support athletes in this new space.
The proposed House settlement and other legal cases are requiring the NCAA and the B1G TEN Conference to constantly change their policies regarding NIL. Congress and the President are also discussing federal action regarding NIL and other matters involving student-athletes. With this constantly changing legal landscape it is now more important than ever that student-athletes with significant NIL potential work with an experienced attorney before entering into any agreement or contracts.
Here’s what Oregon and Nebraska athletes need to keep in mind:
- Disclosure Requirements: State law and university policy may require athletes to disclose NIL agreements before finalizing them.
- Prohibited Categories: State law and university policy may restrict endorsements from alcohol, gambling, or “adult entertainment” brands.
- No School Logo Use: Athletes typically cannot use school logos or trademarks in ads unless the university gives permission.
- No Pay-for-Play: Compensation must be tied to actual services, like ad appearances—not athletic performance or recruitment.
How Do Athletes Get Paid for Ads?
Getting paid to appear in an ad can happen in several ways. Some athletes are approached directly by brands. Others use NIL platforms, collectives, or agents to connect with sponsors. Compensation can take many forms:
- Flat fees for being featured in a video or digital campaign
- Per-post payments on social media
- Commissions based on product sales or affiliate links
- Long-term partnerships with monthly retainers or milestone bonuses
Potential Pitfalls to Avoid
While the opportunity is exciting, student-athletes need to approach advertising deals with caution. Poorly negotiated contracts can lead to lost revenue, eligibility issues, or unwanted long-term obligations.
Common issues to watch out for include:
- Vague compensation terms (e.g., “exposure” instead of money)
- Exclusivity clauses that block future deals
- Use of athlete’s image beyond the contract period
- No mention of termination rights if the partnership goes south
- Failure to disclose to your school or follow NIL rules
That’s why every athlete with high NIL potential needs legal guidance before signing on the dotted line.
How The Hughes Companies Supports Oregon and Nebraska Athletes
At The Hughes Companies, we offer comprehensive NIL legal support to college athletes in Oregon and Nebraska. When it comes to ad deals, we:
- Review and negotiate contracts to protect your rights
- Ensure compliance with state law, university, conference, and NCAA policies
- Clarify usage rights and compensation
- Help you build a sustainable brand for future partnerships
- Provide tax and business guidance as needed
Whether you’re a star athlete in Eugene or Corvallis, or building your personal brand in Lincoln, we’re here to help you make informed, strategic decisions about your NIL activity.
Local Opportunities for Oregon and Nebraska Athletes
Oregon and Nebraska are home to various large and well-known corporations. Student-athletes with strong brand appeal have incredible opportunities in these states:
- Nike: Headquartered in Beaverton, a pioneer in athletic shoes and equipment.
- Columbia Sportswear: Headquartered in Portland, a leader in outdoor apparel.
- Adidas: North American Headquarters in Portland, another leading brand of shoes and equipment
- Hydroflask: Headquartered in Bend, an Innovative thermal cupwear company.
- Berkshire Hathaway: Headquartered in Omaha, famous holding and investment company.
- TD Ameritrade: Headquartered in Omaha, holding and investment company.
- Mutual of Omaha: Headquartered in Omaha, national insurance company.
- Kiewit Construction: Headquartered in Nebraska, largest construction company in North America.
- Both states are also home to many local large agricultural companies, manufacturers, and other local businesses that support their local universities and their students.
These businesses are eager to connect with student-athletes who resonate with their audience—especially in local markets in Oregon and Nebraska.
Final Thoughts: Ads Are Just the Beginning
Student-athletes in Oregon and Nebraska are no longer sidelined when it comes to making money. Thanks to NIL, appearing in ads is not only allowed but encouraged. With the right legal guidance, these partnerships can become stepping stones to greater visibility, long-term brand success, and financial empowerment.
If you’re an athlete ready to explore endorsement opportunities—or a business looking to work with Oregon or Nebraska’s rising stars—contact The Hughes Companies today. We’ll help you navigate the world of advertising, NIL contracts, and brand strategy with confidence.