NIL stands for "name, image, and likeness" and refers to the rights of college athletes to control and profit from their name, image, and likeness. In the past, these rights were restricted by the NCAA, but recent policy changes now allow athletes to monetize their personal brand and endorsements while participating in college sports. This means that college athletes can earn compensation for their name, image, and likeness, such as through autograph signings, product endorsements, social media posts, and more. High school athletes can also sign NIL deals, but the rules vary by state and school. NIL is not the same as pay-for-play, and the NCAA still forbids improper inducements intended to attract students to a particular school.