Checklist to Protect Your Brand During NIL Deal

Use this checklist to make sure your NIL activities support—not harm—your long-term reputation and opportunities.

✔️ Build a Professional Online Presence

• Are your social media profiles professional, appropriate, and consistent with how I want to be seen?

• Have you cleaned up old posts that don’t fit the image you want to present?

• Are your bio, photos, and content reflect a positive, authentic personal brand?

✔️ Stay Consistent With Sponsor Expectations

• Do you know what brands expect from your public image?

• Does your content align with the tone, values, and professionalism that sponsors look for?

• Do you avoid posts that could contradict or undermine current or potential sponsorships?

✔️ Choose the Right Partnerships

• Are you avoiding endorsing companies that conflict with your personal values?

• Are you avoiding deals that conflict with school policies or team rules?

• Have you evaluated how a brand or product will reflect on you long-term?

✔️ Consider Long-Term Reputation

• Have you thought about how each NIL deal may affect your future career—athletic or non-athletic?

• Online content stays accessible and can impact jobs, endorsements, or public roles later.

✔️ Final Check

• Do you feel confident that your NIL deal aligns with goals of your personal brand?