Former NFL coach and current CU athletics director face disagreement over additional resources for NIL deals amid Cowboys interest.
Deion Sanders, one of the top names emerging in the Dallas Cowboys’ head coaching search, met with resistance when he asked for more NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) resources from Colorado. The request came as the team was pursuing Sanders, who is currently the head coach at CU.
According to reports, Sanders approached CU athletics director Rick George on Tuesday about additional money for NIL deals and his staff. However, George met with resistance.
Colorado has taken steps to prepare for the House v. NCAA settlement, which will allow schools to share up to $20 million directly with athletes if approved in April. The school recently cut ties with its NIL collective, 5430 Alliance, citing the looming settlement as a factor.
Other top contenders in the Cowboys’ search include Robert Saleh and Kellen Moore, who have both requested interviews. As the search for the new head coach continues, Sanders remains a prominent name.
Sanders initially signed a contract at CU that gave him a $5 million salary pool. The number ranked seventh among Big 12 programs. However, when compared to other top programs, such as Ohio State and Georgia, Colorado’s pool is relatively low.
In related news, North Carolina has listed a revenue-sharing pool in Bill Belichick’s contract. The Tar Heels will share $13 million with their football players. Other schools are also taking steps to prepare for the settlement by redirecting funds towards NIL efforts.
The situation highlights the challenges of navigating the changing landscape of college athletics and NIL deals. As the Cowboys continue their search, Sanders’ focus remains on his current situation at CU.
Source: https://www.on3.com/college/colorado-buffaloes/news/deion-sanders-met-with-resistance-asking-colorado-more-nil-resources-amid-nfl-interest-dallas-cowboys