Brett Yormark clarifies the Big 12's stance on NIL, congressional oversight

Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark clarified the conference’s stance on NIL and congressional oversight when he spoke at Big 12 media day.

NIL is a big issue within college athletics. So much so, some called for federal legislation since each state has individual rules and that affects colleges and even high schools, in terms of the rules.

Yormark continued to work very closely with others on the issue on Capitol Hill to ultimately get NIL right.

“Well, thank you for the question, obviously, it’s an issue that we’re all addressing,” Yormark said at Big 12 media day. “I’m working very closely with my 85 colleagues and Charlie Baker. I have spent time on Capitol Hill. We would like federal legislation to create some uniformity to NIL. There’s 32 states, and in many cases, very different interpretations. So federal preemption of state law is certainly something that’s high on the list. 

“And there are other components as well that go along with it. But we are addressing it as an industry and in partnership with many of the conferences and the NCAA. But great question.”

NIL is embedded in youth culture at this point. Since deals can be handed out from colleges, collectives, boosters, or whatever the case may be, young high school prospects see that as an attraction.

Brett Yormark on Big 12 stance on NIL

With the transition to Gen Z being a bigger thing in recruiting these days, Yormark was asked how he’ll attract that age group amongst his institutions in the Big 12.

“Well, I’m leaving a lot of what’s happening on campus to my ADs,” Yormark said. “But I don’t think that NIL really plays a role in attracting Gen Z. I mean, we’re attracting Gen Z, notwithstanding NIL and saw our member institutions, and much of what you’re hearing today and what’s unfolding in front of your eyes with the brand refresh. 

“How we’re enhancing and modernizing our championships, how we’re creating creative spots to connect with youth culture, and that Gen Z demographic, those are the ways that we are attracting Gen Z and I feel very comfortable about our approach. It’s not about NIL.”

Will some schools have a steep advantage based on NIL rules in their respective states? It could very well be the case.

Especially with schools with huge brand and name recognition. Heck, Texas and Oklahoma are already out the door to the SEC after 2023.

Yormark wants to reel it all in and regulate it at a federal level. But it remains to be seen how far off that process is as NIL still develops in its infancy.