In 2021, the NCAA’s Name Image Likeness policy began allowing collegiate athletes to profit from their identity. Since then, power programs have clamored for innovative NIL solutions to recruit the nation’s top prospects, but LSU football coach Brian Kelly says there’s a line he won’t let NIL fundraising cross in Baton Rouge.
“We can keep NIL off the field. I think we can generate the things that we need here at LSU separate from the gameday atmosphere,” Kelly said.
Oklahoma State made headlines this offseason after unveiling QR codes linked to the team’s NIL collective displayed on the back of their helmets. Kelly says the collegiate feeling- the bands, students, and traditions- is what makes the game special.
“This is just my personal feeling. Putting a QR code on your helmet just doesn’t feel collegiate to me,” Kelly said.
The Tigers have helped lead the charge in NIL innovations, unveiling a first of its kind collaboration between the Tiger Athletic Foundation and the team’s Bayou Collective earlier this summer. Kelly says NIL is a fantastic opportunity, but one that should be kept off the gridiron.
“NIL is here to stay, and that’s great. But I think we can be separate from that and still, at the end of the game, go to work on NIL,” Kelly said.
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