The Impact of NIL Compensation on Recruiting Outcomes in NCAA Division I Football
Abstract
The introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation has significantly transformed recruiting dynamics in NCAA Division I athletics. While NIL creates new financial opportunities for student-athletes, it remains unclear whether higher NIL compensation leads to improved recruiting outcomes. This study examines the relationship between NIL compensation and recruiting success, measured by the number of elite recruits and five-star recruits.
Using a dataset of NCAA Division I football programs from 2018–2025, this study analyzes the relationship between estimated NIL values and recruiting outcomes through scatterplots and comparison of means. The findings reveal a weak and inconsistent relationship between NIL compensation and recruiting success. Although some programs with higher NIL values appear to attract more elite recruits, the overall pattern lacks a strong linear association.
These results suggest that NIL compensation alone does not fully explain recruiting outcomes. Other factors, such as program reputation, historical success, and institutional resources, likely play a more significant role. Overall, this study contributes to ongoing discussions regarding the impact of NIL on competitive balance in college athletics.
The Impact of NIL Compensation on Recruiting Outcomes in NCAA Division I Football
The introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation has significantly transformed recruiting dynamics in NCAA Division I athletics. While NIL creates new financial opportunities for student-athletes, it remains unclear whether higher NIL compensation leads to improved recruiting outcomes. This study examines the relationship between NIL compensation and recruiting success, measured by the number of elite recruits and five-star recruits.
Using a dataset of NCAA Division I football programs from 2018–2025, this study analyzes the relationship between estimated NIL values and recruiting outcomes through scatterplots and comparison of means. The findings reveal a weak and inconsistent relationship between NIL compensation and recruiting success. Although some programs with higher NIL values appear to attract more elite recruits, the overall pattern lacks a strong linear association.
These results suggest that NIL compensation alone does not fully explain recruiting outcomes. Other factors, such as program reputation, historical success, and institutional resources, likely play a more significant role. Overall, this study contributes to ongoing discussions regarding the impact of NIL on competitive balance in college athletics.
