The Dark Side of NIL Contracts: How Athletes Get Trapped
Most Valuable Agent with Matt Hannaford
Release Date: 09/24/2025
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info_outlineOn this episode of the Most Valuable Agent Podcast, Matt Hannaford brings on top sports attorney Ben Levine, who represents high-profile athletes and entertainers. Together, they break down the fast-changing NIL landscape and explain what parents, players, and advisors need to know before signing any deal.
From the Reggie Bush and Jameis Winston controversies to today’s multimillion-dollar NIL contracts, Matt and Ben highlight how quickly the game has changed—and how dangerous it can be to overlook the fine print. They also share practical advice on negotiating leverage, protecting athlete rights, and avoiding one-sided agreements that can impact a player’s future.
Whether you’re a parent navigating your child’s recruiting journey, a student-athlete weighing brand partnerships, or simply curious about the business of college sports, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone in the NIL era.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
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How the House Settlement is reshaping NIL deals in college sports
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Why state-by-state NIL laws can make or break athlete opportunities
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Common contract traps (like clawbacks, offsets, and “in perpetuity” clauses)
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Why every family should consider legal review before signing
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The difference between school revenue-sharing and private NIL brand deals
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Drop a comment with your NIL questions—we may cover them in a future episode!
Links & Resources
Follow Matt Hannaford: www.instagram.com/mfhannaford
Alignd Sports: www.instagram.com/aligndsports
Connect with Ben Levine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belevine/
Hashtags
#MostValuableAgent #NILContracts #SportsLaw #AthleteProtection