The NCAA has bylaws that restrict what a college athlete can do while in school. For one, they aren’t allowed to earn money as an amateur athlete. Not from endorsements, not for signing memorabilia and not for on-field performance, so what can an athlete do to earn income if possible?
In order to remain an amateur athlete, the NCAA says a college athlete can’t have a contract with a professional team, salary for participating in athletics, prize money above actual and necessary expenses and benefits from an agent or prospective agent.
However, a recent court decision – O’Bannon vs. the NCAA – could help any college athlete earn money in the future. A federal judge ruled that football and basketball players in major programs could challenge NCAA rules that prohibit compensation beyond the value of their athletic scholarships. It wasn’t a complete victory for collegiate athletes though, as the judge ruled that they aren’t able to recoup past damages.
One of the biggest arguments NCAA athletes have is that rules prevent them from turning professional when they desire. Baseball players have to stay in college for three years if they pass on being drafted out of high school. Basketball players must attend college for one year before becoming eligible for the NBA draft. Football players also have to be in school for three years before draft eligibility is granted. As a note, this three-year period also applies to athletes who have been redshirted. Johnny Manziel is likely to declare for the draft, despite only playing for two seasons, as he was a redshirt freshman – this year of inactivity counts toward the three-year rule.
Athletes could argue that these rules are preventing them from earning wages. And, what happens if they get injured while participating in collegiate athletics and can no longer pursue a professional career? Sure, they could take out an insurance policy on themselves but that may not make up for the millions that the select few could earn.
With these issues facing the NCAA, it will be interesting to see how the organization moves forward. Will athletes be paid? Will they be able to go straight to the pros? Only time will tell.
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