NIL in 2025: 5 Trends College Administrators Can Leverage for Athletes

As we step into 2025, NIL opportunities are no longer a side conversation—they’re a cornerstone of athlete development and success. For college administrators, coaches, and professionals working with athletes, now is the time help the next generation make the most of these trends while shaping their futures. Below are 5 NIL trends to keep on your radar—and actionable ways you can support your athletes in navigating this exciting space.

5 NIL Trends Athletes Can Leverage for Success

1. Leverage AI to Enhance Athlete Branding. AI is transforming how athletes build and manage their brands. From content creation to fan engagement, AI tools offer incredible potential to amplify an athlete's reach.

How administrators can help:

• Host workshops to introduce athletes to tools like ChatGPT for captions or Canva’s AI features for graphic design
• Provide analytics training on how to interpret social media data using AI platforms
• Facilitate partnerships with tech companies that specialize in AI-driven fan engagement tools

2. Encourage Short-Form Video Storytelling. TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts continue to dominate, making short-form video a critical piece of any athlete’s NIL strategy.

How administrators can help:

• Organize content creation bootcamps that teach athletes to produce engaging, on-trend videos
• Partner with campus media teams or local videographers to assist athletes in creating professional content
• Help athletes identify brand-friendly trends and challenges to participate in

3. Build Community on Emerging Platforms. Platforms like BlueSky and Threads are creating new opportunities to connect with audiences. Athletes who embrace these platforms early can become pioneers in niche spaces.

How administrators can help:

• Educate athletes about the benefits of building communities on platforms like Discord or Slack
• Create a “starter kit” or "cheat sheet" for athletes to launch exclusive fan spaces, offering templates for member perks or engagement strategies
• Spotlight athletes who successfully engage their audience on emerging platforms, sharing their strategies with peers

4. Capitalize on the Growth of Women’s Sports. Women’s sports are on the rise, and brands are eager to invest in this momentum. Female athletes can use NIL to amplify their voices and create meaningful partnerships.

How administrators can help:

• Connect female athletes with brands that align with their values, particularly those focusing on empowerment and gender equity
• Highlight women’s sports programs and athletes in marketing campaigns to attract sponsors
• Offer mentorship opportunities with alumni who’ve built successful careers in marketing, sales business, and/or NIL within women’s sports

5. Promote Opportunities Beyond Sports. In 2025, NIL is more than just athletics—it’s about showcasing versatility. Athletes who diversify their income streams are setting themselves up for long-term success.

How administrators can help:

• Support entrepreneurial athletes by connecting them with campus resources, such as business incubators or entrepreneurship programs.
• Provide space and funding for athletes to host workshops, camps, or community events.
• Encourage athletes to explore interests outside sports, whether in fashion, education, or other industries.

By giving athletes the tools to embrace these trends, you’re not just helping them succeed in the NIL space—you’re preparing them for life beyond sports. 2025 is a year of opportunity. Let’s make sure our athletes are ready to innovate, adapt, and thrive!