These College Football Icons Would’ve Dominated the NIL Era (If It Existed Since 2000.| top 5 highest paid college football players

Imagine if college football legends from the past  decades ought to’ve profited from their reputation. With the NCAA eventually permitting athletes to earn money from their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) as of 2021, it is hard not to marvel: Who would’ve been the very best-paid gamers if NIL existed considering that 2000?

Some of these stars weren’t just correct—they have been countrywide icons, driving large TV ratings, merchandise sales, and media buzz. Let’s discover which players could’ve made tens of millions and why.

Reggie Bush – USC’s Superstar inside the Spotlight

Between 2003 and 2005, Reggie Bush was electrifying.  He changed into on highlight reels weekly, and USC was the center of university soccer.

Projected NIL income: $3–5 million/12 months

Endorsement capacity: Nike, Gatorade, EA Sports

Why so precious? He played in Los Angeles, a prime media market, and had crossover appeal.

Even with out NIL, Bush changed into as soon as investigated for accepting unsuitable benefits—evidence that his marketability was already through the roof.

Tim Tebow – The Face of College Football

He turned into a countrywide phenomenon. With unrivaled management, smooth-cut photo, and strong spiritual values, manufacturers might’ve covered up for him.

Estimated earnings: $2.5–four million/year

Biggest NIL fits: Christian-based companies, Under Armour, media appearances

Tebow’s influence prolonged into books, charity work, or even politics later—he changed into greater than simply an athlete.

Johnny Manziel – The NIL Wildcard

Love him or hate him, Johnny Football was a advertising device in 2012. His Heisman-prevailing season at Texas A&M placed him on every sports cover.

Estimated NIL fee: $2–three million/yr

Brand appeal: Energy liquids, video games, life-style brands

Why it really works: He was viral earlier than viral became cool—his name trended each Saturday.

Manziel had a rockstar personality, and brands might’ve used it to goal more youthful, edgy audiences.

Cam Newton – One-Year Wonder, Big-Time Marketability

In 2010, Cam Newton led Auburn to an undefeated season and national identify. He became the definition of dominance—and air of mystery.

Estimated profits: $2 million+ for one season

Newton had style, swagger, and celeb energy, which translates to most important advertising and marketing greenbacks.

Trevor Lawrence – The Modern Prototype

Though NIL have become criminal throughout his very last university year, Lawrence performed maximum of his Clemson career earlier than 2021. Still, his easy photograph, talent, and leadership made him a prime candidate.

Potential income (pre-NIL): $2M/year

Top brands: Head & Shoulders, Nike, QB education systems

Bonus: He had the “NFL-geared up” appearance by way of age 18

Lawrence could’ve cashed in on his photograph even as a freshman.

Conclusion: NIL Could’ve Changed the Game Long Ago

If NIL existed before 2021, the college soccer panorama might’ve seemed very different. Players like Bush, Tebow, and Manziel weren’t simply athletes—they had been brands in ready.

 Yet until these days, they couldn’t take advantage of it. Today’s athletes are beginning to earn what their cost demands. But the celebs of the 2000s? They paved the way—and missed the payday.