Former Super Bowl champion and three-time NFL Pro Bowl-Bowler TJ Ward is hosting a special event with his brother, Terron, to help young athletes navigate the NIL world.
Ward, who was an outstanding athlete at the University of Oregon, offers a few of his takes on the changing world of college athletics since the implementation of NIL.
Ward said he believes that players should be paid, but NIL does need some regulation.
“I’m all for athletes getting paid. They’ve earned that opportunity, but there has to be accountability. NIL should reward preparation, performance, and professionalism, and not just a tool to create bidding wars. The system can continue to evolve in a way that’s good for everyone,” he said.
That has basically been the argument of former Alabama and Miami Dolphins coach Nick Saban, who has been heavily criticized for wanting to put some restrictions on NIL.
Ward also added that young athletes need to remember that NIL is just a bonus and shouldn’t be just the goal.
“Remember that NIL is a bonus and not the goal. Take financial classes and learn how money works, consider NIL as your first real lesson in capitalism, and prepare for your post-career. Focus on becoming the best player, teammate, and person you can be. The opportunities will follow. Surround yourself with people who will tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear,” he added.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: TJ Ward says NIL should not be the ultimate goal for student-athletes
