College football has entered a new age where players are lauded for their on-field skills and marketability off the field. The Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) revolution has turned student-athletes into powerful brand ambassadors, particularly in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
From quarterbacks poised to lead their teams to victory to wide receivers making headlines with game-changing plays, these athletes are commanding impressive NIL valuations.
SEC Players With Highest NIL Valuations
1. Arch Manning, QB, Texas | $6.6 million
Arch Manning, the latest prodigy from the Manning family, is making waves both on and off the field. As the projected starting quarterback of the Texas Longhorns during the 2025 season, Arch’s NIL value has increased.
It exponentially reached a staggering $6.6 million. This increase can be credited to high-profile endorsements, specifically a deal with Red Bull announced in January 2025. The deal was launched via an exciting social media campaign. It marked Arch’s introduction to the upper echelon of athletes sponsored by the energy drink giant.
Arch Manning is now a Vuori Athlete
“Next Mann Up” pic.twitter.com/n8z5rB6Gsl
— Arch Manning Highlights (@ArchHighlights) April 8, 2025
In addition to Red Bull, Arch has gotten into cutting-edge sponsorships. He appeared alongside his father, Cooper, and grandfather, Archie, in an advertisement for driverless Ubers for Waymo. The commercial was amusingly referred to as “Who’s Manning the car?”. It highlights the charm of the family and asserts Arch’s wide market appeal.
In spite of his growing brand, ESPN’s Adam Schefter tells NFL teams to manage their expectations on Arch’s draft timeline. With the Manning family’s track record of long college careers and the lucrative nature of today’s NIL contracts, Arch may choose to stay in college after the 2025 season. Schefter adds, “There’s no guarantee he will enter the draft right away.”
2. LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina | $3.7 million
LaNorris Sellers has become a dual-threat phenomenon at the South Carolina Gamecocks. His standout 2024 year, during which he threw more than 2,200 yards and 17 touchdowns. While adding 655 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground, he has sent his profile through the roof.
This success on the field has carried over to an NIL value of $3.7 million. Sellers signed a new contract with the Garnet Trust collective. This guaranteed his return for the 2025 season and dissuaded speculative transfer bids. The deal reflects NIL’s critical position in holding onto leading players within collegiate programs.
3. Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU | $3.6 million
Garrett Nussmeier’s path with the LSU Tigers is a testament to resilience and preparedness. Taking over as the starting quarterback, Nussmeier has shown outstanding poise and ability, earning an NIL value of $3.6 million.
LSU’s quarterback history and his ability to live up to the legacy of NFL-quality predecessors boost his name’s marketability. Brands are eager to connect with this emerging star, foretelling his influence on the coming season.
4. DJ Lagway, QB, Florida | $3.8 million
DJ Lagway’s rise with the Florida Gators has been meteoric. Following an injury to Graham Mertz, Lagway emerged as the starting quarterback and took the team to four straight wins. This includes an 8-5 season and a bowl game appearance.
His impressive performance has earned him an NIL valuation of $3.8 million. In particular, Lagway signed a lucrative endorsement contract with Gatorade. He further established himself as a marketable athlete and demonstrated his increasing influence off and on the field.
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5. Nico Iamaleava, QB, Tennessee | $3.1 million
Nico Iamaleava’s singular combination of athleticism and charisma has captivated fans in Knoxville. At an NIL worth $3.1 million, he is one of the most valued players in college football.
His large social media presence makes him more attractive to brands looking for vibrant ambassadors. Iamaleava’s loyalty to the Volunteers and his possible play on the field makes him a prize possession for Tennessee and potential sponsors.
6. John Mateer, QB, Oklahoma | $2.7 million
John Mateer’s rise as a key player for the Oklahoma Sooners is evident in his NIL worth of $2.7 million. His performances on the field have drawn attention, making him an attractive personality to endorse. Mateer’s leadership skills and the Sooners’ dominant status in college football further make him marketable.
7. Ryan Williams, WR, Alabama | $1.5 million
Ryan Williams, an Alabama Crimson Tide freshman sensation, saw his NIL value jump to $1.5 million after a breakout game against Georgia. His game-winning touchdown not only won the game but also generated more than 160,000 new social media followers.
This also highlights the direct relationship between on-field heroics and off-field marketability. Williams’ quick rise is a prime example of how one moment can change an athlete’s brand value.
8. Taylen Green, QB, Arkansas | $2.1 million
Taylen Green’s dynamic playmaking skills have earned him a highlight reel spot among the Arkansas Razorbacks. At an NIL valuation of $2.1 million, Green’s dual-threat skill set makes him an appealing choice for brands looking to align with agile athletes. His on-field leadership and increasing popularity off it place him on the cusp of stardom in the NIL market.
9. Jackson Arnold, QB, Auburn | $2.1 million
Jackson Arnold’s tenure with the Auburn Tigers has been marked by resilience and steady growth. Originally a highly rated recruit, Arnold saw limited action early in his college career.
However, he has since developed into one of Auburn’s most exciting young quarterbacks. His blend of arm talent and mobility has generated buzz heading into the 2025 season — and brands are taking notice. With an NIL valuation of $2.1 million, Arnold is a testament that patience and growth can be rewarded in a major way.
Auburn’s offense is expected to revolve around Arnold’s leadership and playmaking this year. His marketability is bolstered by a loyal fanbase and the SEC’s massive media presence. It made him an ideal face for regional and national endorsement deals. As he continues to rise on the field, expect that NIL number to follow suit.
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10. Cam Coleman, WR, Auburn | $1.8 million
Completing the top 10 is Cam Coleman, a true freshman sensation who’s already making waves at Auburn. With an NIL value of $1.8 million, Coleman hasn’t even played a single down of college football yet — but his upside is undeniable.
A 5-star signee from Alabama, Coleman flipped from Texas A&M to Auburn, making headlines and becoming an instant fan favorite.
He’s got the size, speed, and charisma that make him an ideal NIL darling. Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze has already suggested Coleman will be a Day 1 impact player. If his high school dominance carries over to the SEC, this $1.8M valuation might seem like a steal by midseason.
Keep an eye on Coleman — he might be college football’s next breakout star, both on the field and in the business world.
There’s no question that NIL has turned the college football universe upside down — and nowhere is that more evident than in the SEC. These ten players are no longer simply gridiron gladiators; they’re CEOs of their brands, raking in millions on endorsements, appearances, and social sway.
What’s particularly interesting is the variety of routes to NIL success. Some, such as Manning and Iamaleava, were already household names before they ever snapped a ball.
Others, such as Sellers and Williams, had their valuations blow through the roof due to explosive campaigns and viral highlights. The common denominators? Talent, timing, and a major presence on the field and social media.
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