Hey Playmakers —

In the world of sports, nothing is guaranteed — and this week, Shedeur Sanders’ stunning draft slide proves it. Once projected as a top NFL pick, Shedeur fell to the fifth round, costing him an estimated $44 million. It’s a harsh reminder: even elite athletes need to protect their futures now, not later.

That’s where NIL comes in.

Today’s newsletter breaks down how smart NIL strategy can be the financial safety net every athlete needs. Plus: I’ll show you how to laser-focus your brand with one audience, one offer, one outcome — and how building your tribe off the field can future-proof your career, no matter what happens on draft day.

Let’s get into it. 👇

— Justin Thompson

Breaking News

Shedeur Sanders' Draft Slide Highlights NIL's Financial Impact

Once projected as a top NFL draft pick, Shedeur Sanders' fall to the fifth round resulted in a significant financial shortfall—approximately $44 million less than anticipated. This underscores the critical role NIL earnings play in an athlete's financial planning, especially when professional prospects fluctuate.​

Why It Matters:

• Financial Cushion: NIL deals can provide a safety net for athletes, mitigating the financial impact of unexpected changes in draft status.​
  

• Strategic Planning: Athletes must consider the balance between immediate NIL earnings and long-term professional aspirations.​

Takeaway for Athletes, Parents, and Coaches:

• Holistic Approach: Develop comprehensive career strategies that incorporate both NIL opportunities and professional goals.​
  

• Financial Literacy: Invest in financial education to make informed decisions about NIL deals and their implications on future earnings.​

Weekly Playbook

One Audience, One Offer, One Outcome: How Athletes Win Big Off the Field

Most athletes fail at branding because they try to be everything to everyone.

The truth?

 You only need ONE clear audience, ONE irresistible offer, and ONE simple outcome to dominate your space.

This Week’s Power Play:

1. Pick Your Audience:
   → Choose a specific tribe you naturally vibe with (ex: sneakerheads, mental health advocates, student entrepreneurs).
   → The narrower, the better. (Think: “college freshmen sneakerheads” NOT just “sneaker lovers.”)
   

2. Craft Your Offer:
   → What unique value can you give them?
   Examples:
   

   • Exclusive behind-the-scenes content
     

   • Personal coaching/mentoring
     

   • Product collabs they can’t get anywhere else
     

3. Focus on ONE Desired Outcome:
   → What's the ONE action you want your audience to take?
   

   • Subscribe to your email list
     

   • Buy your merch
     

   • Join your private community
     

4. Laser-focus on driving that outcome every time you post.

🛡 NIL Rule Reminder:

When creating offers:

• Disclose partnerships clearly (hashtags like #ad or #sponsored are your friends).
  

• Avoid using your school's official logos or trademarks unless you have permission.
  

📣 Call to Action for Athletes:

This week, draft ONE sentence that describes: Who you help, how you help, and what result you promise.
Post it in your bio. Start building your tribe today.

Till then—stay loud, stay you. ✊

Justin Thompson
 NIL Specialist

Get NIL Deals Sent To You!

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✅ Exclusive, curated NIL deal opportunities every week (no endless searching!)
✅ Actionable branding templates to grow your brand faster
✅ Compliance guides to protect yourself and stay eligible
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For just $9.99/month, you’ll get four premium newsletters a month packed with everything you need to start landing deals, marketing yourself like a pro, and building a lasting brand — even if you don't have a million followers.

PLUS: You’ll have the chance to join our exclusive NIL Playbook Community where hundreds of athletes, parents, and industry pros are networking, sharing insights, and growing together.

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Trending

Hoopers Happy in Durham

Duke is one of the only teams in college basketball to lose absolutely zero players to the transfer portal.

If John Scheyer can add a few transfers the Blue Devils will likely be stacked for next season.

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