Before You Sign That Deal: 7 NIL Pitfalls Every Parent Needs to Know
Because your child’s future shouldn’t be defined by a rushed NIL decision
Navigating the NIL world can feel like learning a new language… while blindfolded… on a treadmill… with a kid who’s “got it, mom”.
As a mom, a former D1 athlete, and someone who’s built influencer strategies and negotiated creator contracts for global brands, I’ve seen this industry from every angle. And I know how overwhelming it can be, especially for families who just want to do right by their kids.
So before you greenlight that “collab opportunity” in your inbox, let’s talk about the seven most common NIL mistakes I see parents make, and how to protect your athlete, your time, and everyone’s sanity.
Treating NIL like a side hustle instead of a business
Even if the money starts out small, the moment your child gets compensated for their name, image, or likeness, they’ve stepped into entrepreneurship.
This isn’t just about social posts. It’s contracts, taxes, deliverables, deadlines, and brand reputation. If we don’t treat it like a business, someone else will, and they’ll run it on your kid’s behalf… oh and take somewhere between 15-20% of their check.
Mindset shift: Your child isn’t just an athlete, they’re a personal brand. Let’s build a system to support that from day one.
2. Saying “yes” to the first offer without asking the right questions
That energy drink company? The “NIL agency” with no website? The guy from TikTok promising monthly income?
If it sounds too good to be true… do I even have to say it?
Many families don’t know how to vet opportunities, or worse, they’re afraid to ask questions because they “don’t want to blow the deal.”
Reminder: Any brand or agency who doesn’t want you to read the fine print isn’t worth your time. Trust your instinct. And remeber, there’s power in saying “no”.
3. Ignoring the back-end stuff (until it’s tax season)
Spoiler alert: NIL income gets taxed. Even freebies count.
Many athletes (and parents) are shocked to get 1099s in the mail in January. And unless you’ve got a CPA on speed dial, you’ll want to start tracking everything right away.
Pro tip: Open a separate account for NIL payments, track every dollar, and consider working with a pro who understands athlete income. The whole reason why you’re doing this is to build a legacy. Future you will thank you.
4. Not building a consistent personal brand across all the platforms
One viral post isn’t going to cut it. It may give you a jumpstart and help you become more discoverable by the algorithm, but NIL is a long game. The athletes who build credibility, consistency, and connection over time are the ones who attract premium partnerships.
That means having a cohesive voice on TikTok, IG, YouTube, even LinkedIn. It means knowing what kind of content fits your goals, your followers, and which platforms are worth your time.
Strategy over scramble: Brand building isn’t about being everywhere. It’s about showing up where it counts and doing it with intention.
5. Leaving your kid out of the conversations (just don’t do it)
Of course you want to protect them. But NIL is an opportunity for growth, responsibility, and learning how to lead. If parents take over every deal, athletes never learn how to advocate for themselves, and that’s a problem once college ends and real life begins.
Co-lead: Bring your kid into the decision-making. Let them ask the questions. Help them understand their own value. Help them realize they are the CEOs of their brand and you’re there to support.
6. Trusting “experts” without receipts
Anyone can call themselves an NIL coach. Or rep. Or strategist. What matters is lived experience, values, and results.
Ask:
What is your professional background?
Were you a college athlete?
What athletes have you worked with?
What brands have you partnered with?
What’s your experience negotiating deals?
If they get cagey or talk you into a circle that’s your cue.
If they can’t walk the walk, they shouldn’t lead the journey.
7. Thinking you have to do it all alone
You shouldn’t have to understand brand strategy, taxes, content creation, and contract law overnight. That’s why I started NextGen Legacy NIL. I wanted to be the resource I wish I had when I was in your shoes.
Whether your child is just getting started or already getting offers, the truth is: you’re not behind. You just need a guide who’s walked this path before.
Ready for next steps?
If this blog hit home, I hope you’ll reach out and set up a 20 minute complimentary call to learn more.
Your child is the brand. You are the protector. I’m the playbook.
Let’s build a legacy together.
