CJ Stroud offers thoughts on NIL value, potential revenue sharing

Ohio State quarterback CJ Stroud got asked if colleges should begin sharing television revenues from broadcasting sports with the athletes themselves on top of the NIL deals they’re now allowed to sign, much like professional leagues. This question came in light of the Big Ten reportedly signing a $7.5-billion television deal with FOX, NBC (including Peacock) and CBS to air Big Ten sporting events, mostly football.

Stroud acknowledged that the amateur aspect of college sports is something he values and worth trying to protect, but added that he knows the deal he, his teammates and peers across the country get is not really a fair recouping of their own value.

“But at the same time — I’m not 100 percent sure what our tuition is — but I’m sure it’s not the worth of how much we’re actually worth,” Stroud said. “So, me personally, my mom has always taught me to know my worth and I know I’m probably not worth a billion dollars right now — nah heck no. But it would definitely mean a lot, not only to the players but to the coaches. On the whole, I think the school would appreciate just giving us a little something. Just because, we put in so much work. We’re in here, nobody’s looking. All the time that goes into it, it’s definitely tough. Then you take time away from your family. I’m 2000 miles away from home. I don’t want anybody to feel bad for me, but at the same time it does take a lot of courage, does take a lot of heart to be here for day-in, day-out, year-in, year-out.

And while Stroud thinks revenue sharing should happen, he’s not waiting around. He and other Buckeyes will continue to push ahead with NIL deals that do get them paid. Stroud, per On3’s NIL valuations, is worth about $2.5-million, making him one of the most valuable college athletes in that regard.

“So, I definitely think it should be shared,” Stroud said. “But if not, at the end of the day we have the NIL space and what we can do that way. The new college world is definitely turning around, and I’m here for it.”