About On3 NIL Valuation

About NIL Valuation

Established in 2021, the On3 NIL Valuation is the first and industry-leading index for tracking annual NIL contract value for college and high school athletes.

The On3 NIL Valuation was originally built as a proprietary algorithm to establish a baseline market value when there was little public information, structure, or consistency in the NIL marketplace. It gave athletes, families, schools, collectives and brands a clearer view of roster value, athlete opportunity and the emerging economics of college sports.

As the market evolved, so did the valuation. On3 updated the model multiple times to reflect major shifts in athlete compensation, most notably the rise of direct player contracts and the growing influence of collectives, roster management and market demand.

As of July 1, 2026, the On3 NIL Valuation moved from an algorithm-based model to a deal-based valuation model.

Today, the On3 NIL Valuation reflects the current player contract value. It is not a projection of an athlete’s marketing value, endorsement potential or what was originally understood as “true NIL.” Instead, it is designed to track athletes’ compensation from colleges/collectives.

A green checkmark indicates the NIL Valuation is based on a confirmed player contract. All other valuations are informed by On3 and Rivals insiders through behind-the-scenes reporting on active negotiations, expected market value, roster demand, position need, program market, player profile, and current deal activity.

If an athlete does not have an NIL Valuation listed on their profile, it means On3 does not currently have enough information to publish a valuation. Athletes may go through the proper On3 channels to be reviewed for an NIL Valuation.

The NIL market is now mature enough, and On3 has access to sufficient deal information to provide a more accurate assessment of player value based on real market activity, confirmed contracts, and trusted insider reporting.