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NIL Money Keeps Stars in College, Shaking Up NFL Draft
26 Jan
Summary
- Fewer underclassmen declared for the 2026 NFL Draft compared to past years.
- NIL money offers financial incentives for players to stay in college.
- Key prospects like Dante Moore opted to remain in school.
The upcoming 2026 NFL Draft faces a significantly reduced pool of eligible underclassmen, a trend attributed to the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. As of January 26, 2026, only 63 underclassmen have declared, a stark decrease from previous years where numbers could exceed 126. This reduction directly impacts teams like the Arizona Cardinals, who possess high draft selections in each round, including the #3 overall pick in the first round.
High-profile talents such as Oregon QB Dante Moore, once projected as a Top-5 pick, have chosen to remain in college. This decision, along with others like OT Jordan Seaton and QB LaNorris Sellers, highlights how NIL compensation can rival or even exceed potential NFL contract earnings. Players can now secure substantial income while continuing their college careers, enjoying the benefits of being a prominent student-athlete.
This shift alters the traditional pathway to professional football, where early declaration was once the primary route to financial security. While free agency in mid-March provides an avenue for teams to address immediate needs, the long-term strategy of building through the draft is complicated by this evolving landscape. The financial and lifestyle benefits of staying in college are proving increasingly attractive to top-tier prospects.
