Billy Napier calls for federal oversight in NIL era as frustration builds

Aside from all the talks surrounding what scheduling format the SEC would go with for college football as they prepare for the addition of Texas and Oklahoma in 2024, NIL was also a huge talking point at the conference’s spring meeting. Florida Gators coach Billy Napier was one of several coaches to sound off on the issue while voicing concern.

According to the Gators’ headman, it’s about time somebody steps up and takes care of NIL, setting universal rules and regulations for everyone involved.

“I think we have; the number of variables that contribute to this issue we have relative to employee law, antitrust law, (and) the difference in state law,” said Napier. “So regardless of my opinion, I mean we have a number of variables that contribute to this issue, right?

“Federal oversight is ultimately the answer to the question right now. Who’s gonna do that? Is it our government? Is it (the) College Football Playoff, one of our leagues, the SEC? Like, at some point, I think you’re going to see some frustration with all involved, and somebodies going to make a decision that ultimately puts those things in place that you’re describing.”

Napier was not the only one concerned with the direction NIL is headed in. Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin also expressed concern while discussing the recent laws being proposed in Texas on NIL, which would give the Longhorns and Aggies a considerable advantage when recruiting in the state.

Whether it is the government itself or some other governing body, the lawlessness of this particular area of college sports must soon be addressed. If not, more significant problems could be on the horizon much faster than anticipated.

Napier explains the double-edged sword gambling on college athletics presents

Napier also weighed in on gambling in college athletics during the SEC’s spring meetings, describing it as a double-edged sword.

This comes as the college baseball world was rocked by a gambling scandal surrounding the now-former Alabama baseball coach, Brad Bohannon. Bohannon was fired after allegedly being connected to betting activity.

“I think that we’ve got good checks and balances in place, not only from the league but also within our institution,” Billy Napier said. “You know, it’s made the game more popular. So, I think there’s pros and cons here, right?”

The reality for administrators is that it’s difficult to prevent online gambling. Laws are rapidly changing and vary by state. Keeping up can be difficult and it’s an issue that’s becoming more prevalent at all levels of sports. The Calvin Ridley suspension by the NFL is just one high-profile example.

“The big thing is you have to have great checks and balances in place, you’ve got to educate your players, and try to prevent some of these things from happening.”

On3’s Dan Morrison contributed to this story