Field to Fortune:

Top 10 NIL College Athletes of 2023

In the world of college sports, the landscape has evolved in ways we never saw coming a decade ago. Name, Image, and Likeness rights (NIL) have truly altered the game, turning talented student-athletes into overnight sensations and making them cash cows off the field. And in this new era, a few have emerged as trailblazers, making the most of their NIL in 2023.

Beginning with Oliva “Livvy” Dunne, a star gymnast at LSU, she has truly revolutionized the way student-athletes engage with fans. With her dazzling performances on the mat and lively TikTok content, she's built a brand worth an average of $3.35 million. It's a high bar (pun intended), but Livvy is flipping conventional gymnastics fame on its head.

Catching a quick pass to the field, we find two footballers who've scored big. Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter of Colorado have each carved out their own niches, with Sanders building a formidable brand, averaging $1.35 million. The Colorado duo's successes show how effective teamwork is not just on the field but also in the branding playbook.

But all eyes are set on the court, where Bronny James, the son of basketball legend LeBron James, is living up to his name and more. It's not just his high-flying dunks that are catching everyone's attention, but also his tremendous off-court endeavors. With an astounding $7.4 million in personal branding deals, Bronny is not just following in his dad's footsteps, he's sprinting through new doors of opportunity.

These trailblazers exemplify the powerful impact of NIL on the life of student-athletes, making them the face of a revolution that's much larger than the games they play. Indeed, they're not just athletes anymore; they're pioneers, entrepreneurs, and trendsetters. So, it's time to grab some popcorn and enjoy the show because these stars are only getting started.

Check out our full list analysis below…

10. Drake Maye, Football, University of North Carolina
Average NIL Valuation: $1.4 million 
Notable achievement: Broke UNC's record for single season passing yards. 

9. Sunisa Lee, Gymnastics, Auburn University 
Average NIL Valuation: $1.5 million 
Notable achievement: Olympic gold medallist and NCAA champion. 

8. Hansel Emmanuel, Men's Basketball, Northwestern State University 
Average NIL Valuation: $1.5 million 
Notable achievement: Became a viral sensation for his skills despite having only one arm. 

7. Marvin Harrison Jr., Football, Ohio State University 
Average NIL Valuation: $1.6 million 
Notable achievement: Unanimous spot on the All-American team; named Richter-Howard receiver of the year. 

6. Shedeur Sanders, Football, University of Colorado 
Average NIL Valuation: $1.65 million 
Notable achievement: Winner of the illustrious Jerry Rice Award. 

5. Olivia Dunne, Gymnastics, Louisiana State University  
Average NIL Valuation: $3.35 million 
Notable achievement: Huge social media following and multiple high-profile sponsorship deals. 

4. Caleb Williams, Football, University of Southern California  
Average NIL Valuation: $2.9 million 
Notable achievement: Heisman Trophy and Maxwell Award winner. 

3. Mikey Williams, Men's Basketball, University of Memphis  
Average NIL Valuation: $3.45 million 
Notable achievement: Secured a life-changing endorsement deal with Puma. 

2. Arch Manning, Football, University of Texas  
Average NIL Valuation: $3.75 million 
Notable achievement: No.1 recruit in the 2023 class. 

1. Bronny James, Basketball, (Undecided School)  
Average NIL Valuation: $7.4 million 
Notable achievement: Son of basketball legend LeBron James, with immense talent and massive social media influence.