I thought the settlement was to pay ex players damages for loss of income. I don't think that mandates paying current players but I could be wrong. There is a bipartisan effort for a bill that would block student athletes from gaining employee status.
I'd rather see football and basketball separated from the other sports in terms of leagues and finances. I agree it's silly for minor sports to travel across country constantly for games. Keep the tradional leagues for minor sports.
Oh, and do the college football Commissioner thing.
It mandates paying current athletes - cap is around $21mm first year and goes up every year after. Also creates an NIL clearing house to review deals and ensure they are fair market value - no doubt this will be challenged. But paying athletes is happening.