For a long time, university football stars generated billions in sales for universities, TV networks, and athletic brands—with out being paid a dime. That all modified in 2021, whilst the NCAA accredited Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, allowing scholar-athletes to subsequently income like the stars they are. But what if NIL had existed a great deal in advance—say, on the grounds that 2000? Who might’ve been college football’s top earners?
Let’s rewind the clock and believe a global in which NIL rights existed over the last many years. Based on popularity, overall performance, marketability, and cultural influence, here’s a have a look at who could’ve crowned the income chart.
1. Reggie Bush – USC (2003–2005)
Reggie Bush wasn’t only a going for walks again—he became a phenomenon. At USC, he lit up highlight reels weekly and helped the Trojans win country wide titles (though later vacated). If NIL existed then, Bush likely could’ve signed multimillion-dollar deals with manufacturers like Nike, Gatorade, and Beats via Dre. His Los Angeles region and Hollywood-degree air of mystery could’ve made him a seven-determine NIL athlete.
Estimated hypothetical NIL fee: $2–three million/12 months
2. Tim Tebow – Florida (2006–2009)
Tebow would’ve had logo offers with spiritual organizations, health supplements, main sportswear brands, and more. His social media following on my own should’ve pushed massive endorsement dollars.
Estimated NIL income: $three–4 million total
three. Johnny Manziel – Texas A&M (2012–2013)
"Johnny Football" turned into built for the NIL technology. His swagger, highlight-reel plays, and off-area air of mystery made him a media darling. Even in only two college seasons, he had the personality to transport merchandise and entice massive sponsors—mainly after turning into the primary freshman to win the Heisman.
Estimated NIL earnings: $2–3 million/yr
four. Trevor Lawrence – Clemson (2018–2020)
Lawrence had all of it—talent, appears, management, and championships. As the face of college soccer during his time, Lawrence would’ve pulled in massive NIL offers with brands targeting Gen Z. Think Adidas, Apple, or maybe esports partnerships.
Estimated NIL income: $1.Five–2 million/yr
five. Cam Newton – Auburn (2010)
Though he played simply one season at Auburn, Newton turned into electric—prevailing the Heisman and countrywide identify in a single magical 12 months. His charisma and highlight-worth plays might’ve brought about endorsement possibilities across apparel, tech, and leisure.
Estimated NIL earnings: $2 million in one year
Honorable Mentions:
Vince Young (Texas, 2003–2005) – Rose Bowl legend.
Lamar Jackson (Louisville, 2015–2017) – Electrifying Heisman winner.
Saquon Barkley (Penn State, 2015–2017) – Endorsement-geared up athleticism.
Final Thoughts
If NIL were in place seeing that 2000, many mythical college soccer players wouldn’t simply be remembered for trophies—they’d be millionaires, too. While the NCAA neglected the danger to compensate those stars at the time, their effect stays undeniable. Now, way to NIL, nowadays’s athletes are in the end getting a piece of the pie. But if the clock ought to flip again, players like Bush, Tebow, and Manziel might’ve been cashing checks lengthy earlier than turning pro.
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