A recent report from The Wall Street Journal revealed that U.S. President Donald Trump is exploring an executive order to address the growing concerns surrounding NIL deals in college sports.
This news follows a meeting with legendary Alabama coach Nick Saban, whose influence on the sport has been significant. Fans, coaches, and even lawmakers are already discussing the possibility of federal involvement in NIL, and it’s igniting enthusiasm and lively discussions across the country.
Fans Hopeful As Donald Trump Announces Potential Executive Order Aimed at NIL Regulation
While NIL creates an avenue for student-athletes to earn money through sponsorships, endorsements, and other ventures, it has also created a lawlessness of sorts in college sports, with some programs now having a competitive edge with significant financial support.
NEW: President Donald Trump is considering an executive order “that could increase scrutiny” on NIL after meeting with Nick Saban, @WSJ reports👀https://t.co/RegfqaalMM pic.twitter.com/pN76YdXPWM
— On3 (@On3sports) May 2, 2025
The meeting between President Trump and Saban, which took place before their joint appearance at Alabama’s commencement ceremony last week, has become a focal point for college football fans. Saban, who retired from coaching in 2024 after a storied career at Alabama, has expressed concerns about the impact of NIL on the sport.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Saban told Trump that the influx of NIL money has created an “athlete arms race” among top programs, where schools with deeper pockets can essentially buy talent, leaving smaller programs at a disadvantage.
President Trump reportedly agreed with Saban’s concerns. Sources cited by The Journal say Trump has tasked his staff with studying the issue and drafting a potential executive order that could increase scrutiny on NIL deals.
While the specifics of the order remain unclear, the idea of federal oversight has struck a chord with fans.
The push for NIL reform isn’t limited to Trump and Saban. Lawmakers have also noticed, with figures like Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville, a former college football coach, speaking out.
Had a great conversation with President Trump last night about the importance of establishing national standards for NIL.
College football is the heart and soul of America — but it’s in danger if we don’t level the playing field. pic.twitter.com/GlUycduFxY
— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) May 2, 2025
“Had a great conversation with President Trump last night about the importance of establishing national standards for NIL. College football is the heart and soul of America — but it’s in danger if we don’t level the playing field,” he wrote, echoing the concerns of many fans,” the post read.
RELATED: What Could Donald Trump’s New NIL Ruling Mean for College Baseball Athletes?
Since taking office just over 100 days ago for his second term, Pres. Trump has signed more than 140 executive orders. While this news has stirred rumors of NIL reform, the details of what this potential order could entail are still unclear.
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