- Judge Wilken delays approval until roster spot protections are added
- Nearly $3 billion in back pay earmarked for athletes
- Over 20 schools could offer $20M+ annual NIL deals by 2025
- Retired coach Saban criticized for opposing compensation reforms
College athletics faces unprecedented transformation as legal experts finalize details of a landmark NCAA settlement. U.S. District Judge Claudia Wilken continues pushing for stronger safeguards against roster cuts, demanding schools restore opportunities for thousands of athletes by Wednesday’s deadline. Data from Midwestern universities shows 14% of Division I programs reduced team sizes after preliminary approval last fall.
Steve Berman, lead attorney for athletes, revealed 93% of objectors will receive roster guarantees under revised terms. “This addresses the court’s core concern about displaced talent,” he stated, while acknowledging potential challenges for walk-on players. The University of Texas recently demonstrated solutions by creating 22 new practice squad positions funded through conference revenue sharing.
Financial provisions remain intact, with schools permitted to distribute $20.5 million annually through NIL collectives starting in 2025. Analysis shows this could increase average Power Five athlete earnings by 38% compared to current endorsement deals. However, retired Alabama coach Nick Saban’s lobbying efforts drew sharp rebukes after he urged political intervention to limit compensation structures.
Industry experts warn the proposed federal oversight could create recruitment imbalances favoring coastal programs. “Mid-tier conferences need standardized NIL guidelines to compete,” noted Big Ten compliance director Mara Wilkins. Meanwhile, 72% of athletic directors surveyed expressed concerns about maintaining Title IX compliance under the new model.