2026 Michigan Season Thread

[MikeDeTiger]

That brings up a question about NIL.  If somebody like Bryce Underwood doesn't pan out, is their 4 million per year negotiable each year, or is it guaranteed?  In general, I mean.....I guess any one player's specifics might not be definitely known, but I figure there's likely some overall standard here.  

[847badgerfan]

It's all loose these days. Until there is legislation, nothing will change. The courts are doing the legislating right now, because the NCAA F's up everything it touches.

[SFBadger96]

[the NCAA also has next to no regulatory and enforcement power without a collective bargaining agreement--otherwise it's all likely just a restraint of trade, particularly because the member institutions don't want to be regulated; they want their labor pool regulated.]

[847badgerfan]

[the NCAA also has next to no regulatory and enforcement power without a collective bargaining agreement--otherwise it's all likely just a restraint of trade, particularly because the member institutions don't want to be regulated; they want their labor pool regulated.]

So says the courts. 

The NCAA had its chance and shit the bed. And here we are.

[MikeDeTiger]

More to the point--if Bryce Underwood keeps riding the pine, is he making $4 million next year or what?  

[847badgerfan]

My understanding?

Player underperforms => still gets paid

Player overperforms => gets paid more or goes elsewhere

[Cincydawg]

I presume the contracts are negotiated by agents who would obviously push for multiyear contracts.  Maybe the option for the player is something like:

$4 million, one year

$3 million, guaranteed each year for two years.

Or something with a buyout clause.