NIL deals can completely change a player’s future, turning a college athlete into a young entrepreneur almost overnight. But just like any powerful tool, it has to be handled the right way.
That’s the message Dan Furman, head of the D1 NIL Collective, shared on the Next Up podcast with Adam Breneman. Furman didn’t sugarcoat it. He said that the stakes are high, and a wrong move could cost an athlete more than just money.
He offered real, necessary advice for young athletes looking to build long-term careers and land the kinds of deals that can truly change their lives.
From understanding what you’re actually signing, to knowing when to involve legal help, Furman broke it all down in simple, no-nonsense terms.
His biggest point? Treat your name, image, and likeness like a business because once a deal is on the table, you’re not just a player anymore. You’re a brand.
Crucial NIL Advice Every High School Athlete Needs
When asked what he’d tell a 17-year-old recruit and their family navigating the NIL space, Dan Furman didn’t hesitate. “You got to have transparency with the guy that you’re working with on the other side of the table,” Furman said.
His message was clear. Young high school football athletes shouldn’t be negotiating with coaches. That’s a mistake he’s seen too many make, and it often affects their performance on the field or court.
Instead, Furman advises players to deal directly with the professionals, those who actually manage the budget, the roster, and the structure of the program. “I would want to negotiate with someone on staff, who is managing the budget, managing the roster, managing that situation,” he emphasized.
It’s not just about getting a flashy number. It’s about fit. “If you’re going into those conversations and you can work out a deal with one of those guys and you feel phenomenal about the fit of the school, the opportunity to go play… man, that’s a no-brainer,” Furman said.
He also offered guidance on how to balance emotion and financial opportunity. “Figure out where you want to go play football. Figure out where you want to go play basketball, and then make a decision on making the number as close to even as possible on both sides.”
In a world where NIL opportunities are exploding, Furman’s advice cuts through the BS. Pick your school for the right reasons. Negotiate with the right people. And most importantly, know your value, but don’t let it define your entire decision.
Also Read: Do High School Football Head Coaches Make More Than College Position Coaches?