The introduction of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rights for college athletes in 2021 brought a seismic shift to college sports. Athletes could now legally profit from their brand, and some schools, like the LSU Tigers, quickly became home to several high-earning players.
Top LSU Athletes With High NIL Valuations
LSU athletes were quick to make the most of NIL opportunities. The On3 NIL valuation system estimated the potential earnings of athletes based on various factors such as sponsorships, media deals, and social media influence. Four LSU athletes stood out with valuations over $1 million, and each of them demonstrated exceptional skills and marketability.
Garrett Nussmeier: $3.6 Million
Garrett Nussmeier, LSU’s starting quarterback, topped the list of highest-earning athletes with a valuation of $3.6 million. Nussmeier, who returned for his senior season in 2025 rather than entering the NFL Draft, proved his value to LSU both on and off the field. His NIL valuation made him the No. 8 college athlete in the country and No. 2 on LSU’s roster.
In 2024, Nussmeier had a standout season, throwing for 3,739 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He also rushed for three scores, helping LSU achieve an 8-4 record. His decision to return to LSU instead of declaring for the NFL Draft reflected his commitment to finishing what he started.
As he entered his final year with the Tigers, Nussmeier’s NIL value was poised to increase further. His decision not to transfer, despite some doubts, kept him in a strong position to leverage his growing brand.
Olivia Dunne: $4.2 Million
Gymnast Olivia Dunne was the highest-earning LSU athlete with an NIL valuation of $4.2 million. Dunne was one of the most marketable college athletes, thanks to her massive social media following and her accomplishments in gymnastics.
In 2024, she contributed to LSU’s national championship win in gymnastics, but it was her online presence that made her a dominant figure in college sports.
Her fame only grew due to her relationship with former LSU baseball star Paul Skenes, who went on to play for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Dunne was consistently in the spotlight, with her massive online following fueling her NIL opportunities.
With a combination of athletic success and social media influence, Dunne’s NIL valuation reflected her status as one of the biggest stars in college athletics.
Flau’Jae Johnson: $1.5 Million
LSU women’s basketball star Flau’Jae Johnson earned a valuation of $1.5 million through her impressive skills on the court and rising music career. Johnson quickly became one of the best guards in the country, and her talent was not limited to basketball. She also pursued a music career, which led to collaborations with well-known artists like Lil Wayne and NLE Choppa.
Johnson’s dual presence as a star athlete and musician helped her become one of the highest-paid women’s basketball players in the country. In 2024, she played a key role in LSU’s success on the court while gaining recognition in the music industry. Her ability to expand her brand across multiple platforms further enhanced her NIL earning potential.
Aaron Anderson: $1.1 Million
Wide receiver Aaron Anderson rounded out LSU’s list of top earners with a NIL valuation of $1.1 million. Anderson had a breakout season in 2024, emerging as LSU’s leading receiver. His performance on the field helped increase his NIL value, and his future with LSU looked bright as he planned to return for the 2025 season.
With the expectation of further success in 2025, Anderson was seen as a key figure in LSU’s offense, particularly in the connection he would develop with Nussmeier.
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This partnership was expected to boost both players’ profiles, potentially increasing Anderson’s NIL valuation in the process. As one of the top receivers in the SEC, Anderson’s status as an emerging star made him a valuable asset in the NIL space.
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