The NCAA Is Working To Change Rules That Restrict College Athletes From Making Money Off Their Likeness

The NCAA is looking into how its rules can be amended in order for athletes to use their names, images, and likenesses for profit.

On Tuesday, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors announced Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman and Ohio State athletic director Gene will be creating a department dedicated to the matter.

“This group will bring together diverse opinions from the membership — from presidents and commissioners to student-athletes — that will examine the NCAA’s position on name, image and likeness benefits and potentially propose rule modifications tethered to education,” Ackerman said in a statement. “We believe the time is right for these discussions and look forward to a thorough assessment of the many complexities involved in this area.”

The NCAA rules currently prohibit athletes from receiving benefits or compensation for their names, images, and likenesses from a school or outside source. This includes blocking college athletes’ ability to participate in commercial advertising or sign autographs for money. 

“While the formation of this group is an important step to confirming what we believe as an association, the group’s work will not result in paying students as employees,” Smith said. “That structure is contrary to the NCAA’s educational mission and will not be a part of this discussion.” 

The workgroup is expected to submit a final report to the Board of Governors in October.