Jim Nagy identifies NIL as key factor in NFL Draft process, reveals impact on underclassman entries

The college football season is over. With that, attention turns to the NFL Draft process, which may also be experiencing changes thanks to NIL.

Jim Nagy, the Executive Director of the Senior Bowl, recently pointed out just how key a factor NIL is becoming in the NFL Draft process. He also explained the impact it’s having on underclassman entries into the draft.

“#NFL released memo today with all draft eligible underclassmen,” Nagy posted. “Only 34 names appeared on the list. For reference, over 140 juniors declared in 2019. NIL [money] keeping players in school!”

That’s over 100 fewer players entering the NFL Draft now than before NIL. It’s a massive shift that certainly seems like it goes beyond a typical fluctuation in player entries.

In January of 2023, the NFL released a list of 69 underclassmen who declared for the draft. That number was 73 in 2022. So, at least, there is a downward trend in entrants.

However, at the same time, it’s hard to say that NIL is the only factor contributing to this change. After all, correlation doesn’t inherently equal causation. College players have had extra eligibility thanks to the 2020 season and the Transfer Portal gives players the option to be on the move. Those changes could also impact underclassmen draft entrants.

At the same time, part of the appeal of NIL is that it allows players to make some money in college. That way, players who may need to make hard financial decisions and leap to the NFL before they’re ready should be able to stay in school easier.

Jim Nagy ended his post with a promotion of the Senior Bowl, which typically markets itself as the start of the NFL Draft.

Jim Nagy details what makes Dallas Turner a special prospect

Ahead of the NFL Draft process, Jim Nagy also took the time to praise Alabama Crimson Tide edge rusher Dallas Turner.

“I would say the athlete,” Nagy said during an episode of Andy Staples On3. “When you’re doing Will Anderson for last year’s draft, you kept seeing 15 on the other side. It was just the get-off, the bend… Athletically, some of the movement stuff, some of the counter stuff that he’s going to be capable of — Dallas Turner is just a really high-end athlete.”

Turner is expected to be a first round pick in the NFL Draft. He’ll look to cement that status in the pre-draft process by showcasing his athleticism as best as he possibly can.