Top 10 College Sports Stars Making Crazy NIL Money

In the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have become a pivotal aspect of a student-athlete’s journey. With top athletes now able to monetize their personal brand, the stakes have never been higher for those excelling in their respective sports. This article explores the lucrative world of college athletes’ NIL earnings, highlighting the top 10 earners for 2024-25, per On3 Sports, who are making waves on the field and wads of dough off it.

Cade Klubnik – Clemson Tigers (Quarterback) – $3.3 million

Cade Klubnik, Clemson’s standout quarterback, ranks among the top NIL earners with a valuation of $3.3 million annually. Noted for his successful 2024 season, Klubnik has secured deals with prominent brands like EA Sports, Fred Caldwell Chevrolet, and Rhoback, cementing his status as a highly marketable athlete.

Garrett Nussmeier – LSU Tigers (Quarterback) – $3.6 million

Garrett Nussmeier, LSU’s star quarterback, boasts a $3.6 million NIL valuation, making him one of the highest-paid college athletes. His rising prestige and attractive personality have secured big endorsements, positioning him among the most marketable players in college football.

LaNorris Sellers – South Carolina (Quarterback) – $3.7 million

LaNorris Sellers, the South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback, currently earns $3.7 million through NIL deals, partnering with companies like EA Sports and Garnet Trust. He had a standout freshman season, leading to significant endorsement opportunities.

DJ Lagway – Florida Gators (Quarterback) – $3.8 million

DJ Lagway, the prolific quarterback for the Florida Gators, ranks seventh with an impressive $3.8 million in NIL earnings. Despite injuries, Lagway’s impact on the field, coupled with his creative off-field marketing, has solidified his status as a top-earning college athlete.

AJ Dybantsa – BYU Cougars (Basketball – Forward) – $3.8 million

AJ Dybantsa, a 6’9″ forward, chose BYU’s basketball program over top-tier schools like Kansas and Alabama. His NIL deal is reportedly closer to $7 million, significantly higher than the initially reported $3.8 million. Dybantsa’s decision highlights BYU’s emergence as an NIL powerhouse under coach Kevin Young and the strong backing of a certain moneyed church.

Jeremiah Smith – Ohio State Buckeyes (Wide Receiver) – $4 million

Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State’s standout freshman wide receiver, is projected to earn about $4 million in NIL money. His impressive 2024 campaign included setting school records for receiving yards and touchdowns. His deals include major brands like Nintendo and Red Bull.

Livvy Dunne – LSU Tigers (Gymnastics) – $4.1 million

Livvy Dunne, LSU’s gymnastics star, earns $4.1 million from NIL deals. She is the highest-paid female college athlete, with endorsements from brands like Nautica and Vuori. Her massive social media presence—14 million followers—significantly boosts her marketability and income.

Carson Beck – Miami Hurricanes (Quarterback) – $4.3 million

Carson Beck, now quarterback for the Miami Hurricanes, earns around $4.3 million in NIL deals. He transferred from Georgia and is set to make nearly $10 million over 12 months, including deals from Miami’s collective and other partnerships.

Cooper Flagg – Duke Blue Devils (Basketball) – $4.8 million

Cooper Flagg is the highest-earning college basketball player with an NIL valuation of $4.8 million. His deals include New Balance, Gatorade, Fanatics, and Cort Furniture, solidifying his status as one of the most valuable athletes in college sports, set to potentially be the NBA’s top draft pick in 2025.

Arch Manning – Texas Longhorns (Quarterback) – $6.5 million

Arch Manning, a Texas Longhorns quarterback with an incredible family football pedigree, leads with a $6.5 million NIL valuation, thanks to deals like his recent partnership with Red Bull. As the projected starter for the 2025 season, Manning’s value continues to rise alongside his football career and family legacy.

Conclusion

As the sphere of college athletics continues to transform with NIL opportunities, these young athletes demonstrate remarkable savvy in leveraging their sports talent into profitable ventures. From football quarterbacks to gymnasts, these top earners are setting new benchmarks for what is possible in collegiate sports marketing. Their success stories not only inspire future athletes but also redefine the economic landscape of college sports, paving the way for a new era of athlete empowerment and financial opportunity.