Attorney
For college athletes in Oregon and Nebraska, the world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) is full of opportunity and risk. Revenue share agreements are becoming more common as athletes partner with collectives, marketing agencies, or even their own schools to monetize their brands. These agreements can sound straightforward: the athlete provides their name and image, while the organization shares a percentage of the revenue earned.
However, the reality is that many revenue share agreements are written to favor the agency or collective, rather than the athlete. Without careful legal review, student-athletes and their families could find themselves trapped in long-term contracts, losing far more than they gain.
At The Hughes Companies, we help athletes in Oregon, Nebraska, and nationwide understand what they’re signing, renegotiate unfair terms, and protect their eligibility while maximizing earnings.
The Hidden Risks in Revenue Share Agreements
While some contracts are fair, many include problematic clauses that can compromise athletes’ control over their careers and future income. Some of the most common issues include:
Excessive commission rates
Some contracts give agencies or collectives unreasonably high percentages—sometimes far above industry standards. Over time, these high commissions can drain an athlete’s earnings.
Perpetual terms
A contract that lasts “forever” or automatically renews without the athlete’s consent can leave a student-athlete tied to an agency long after college.
Unfavorable termination rights
If only the agency can walk away while the athlete is stuck, that’s a clear red flag. Some agreements also require athletes to pay large penalties to exit.
Ambiguous scope of rights
A broad contract might give a collective or agent the right to use the athlete’s name, image, or likeness in ways that extend beyond what was intended.
NCAA and school compliance issues
A poorly drafted contract could accidentally jeopardize eligibility if it violates NIL or institutional rules in Oregon or Nebraska.
Why an NIL Attorney Matters
A revenue share agreement isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s a legally binding contract that can define the trajectory of your career. Having an experienced NIL attorney review the agreement offers several key benefits:
- Decoding the fine print: Attorneys understand the legal jargon and can translate it into plain language for athletes and families.
- Spotting unfair clauses: An NIL lawyer knows what’s standard in the industry versus what’s exploitative.
- Renegotiating terms: If the deal isn’t fair, an attorney can negotiate more balanced commission rates, clearer exit strategies, and protections for the athlete’s future.
- Ensuring NCAA compliance: NIL rules differ by state and school. A lawyer ensures your agreement doesn’t jeopardize your playing eligibility in Oregon or Nebraska.
- Protecting long-term interests: College is just the beginning. Your attorney ensures you’re not giving away rights that could impact your professional or post-college opportunities.
How Families and Sports Agents Benefit Too
It’s not just student-athletes who need guidance. Families and sports agents also rely on attorneys for:
- Peace of mind that agreements are legally sound.
- Support in negotiations where athletes may lack leverage.
- Advice on structuring agreements to benefit the athlete while protecting long-term interests.
Working with a legal partner like The Hughes Companies ensures everyone involved is making informed, strategic decisions.
Oregon and Nebraska: Why Local Guidance Matters
Every state has its own NIL landscape.
- In Oregon, college athletes at schools such as the University of Oregon or Oregon State face specific institutional guidelines in addition to NCAA rules.
- In Nebraska, the NIL environment is shaped by both state law and evolving university policies, creating unique compliance challenges.
Having a firm familiar with the local market and business community, like The Hughes Companies, gives athletes a clear advantage. A national agency may not understand how to navigate local sponsor relationships or school-specific compliance requirements.
Protect Your Future with The Hughes Companies
College athletes work hard to build their brands; don’t let a one-sided revenue share agreement take that away. Whether you’re in Oregon, Nebraska, or anywhere across the country, The Hughes Companies is here to position you for long-term financial success.
If you’ve already signed a revenue share agreement, or are about to, don’t move forward without legal guidance. Contact The Hughes Companies today to protect your rights and your future.