As we enter the new phase of the NIL era in collegiate athletics, schools are looking to get creative as they take advantage of a time when creativity maybe surpassing the NCAA rule book. On Augst 20 th , Oklahoma State University announced its plans to display a 1.5 square inch QR code linking to the program’s general NIL fund on the backs of player’s football helmets this fall. This creative initiative was planned to streamline fans’ donations directly to the athletes; NIL funds. However, the NCAA decided that this creative display by Oklahoma State was essentially against their bylaws.
Oklahoma State firmly believes it is permitted under the NCAA rulebook to place these QR codes on its helmets as institutional decals. Nevertheless, according to an Oklahoma State release, they were informed that the NCAA views the decals as “advertising and/or commercial marks,” which are not permitted under NCAA rules. Oklahoma State argues that its decision to employ the QR codes is compliant with NCAA rules and was made in consultation with its conference office. Oklahoma State athletic director Chad Weiberg released a statement stating “We disagree with the interpretation of the rule but will abide by it and work with the appropriate groups to lead on the needed change,” He further reiterated that “Our people came up with an innovative concept to raise NIL value of our student-athletes, but ultimately, it just serves as the latest example of how college sports are evolving at a faster pace than the rulebook.” The Big Ten conference commissioner stated, “I look forward to partnering with the NCAA and my fellow conference commissioners in an effort to modernize legislation that enables our schools to drive value for our student-athletes.”
Oklahoma State will abide by the NCAA ruling and not display the decals on the helmets of players but instead the image will be displayed throughout Boone Pickens Stadium last Saturday- including players’ equipment bags, drink coasters, videoboard and even signage around the stadium.
This issue is just a reminder that as the NIL era evolves in the collegiate world with more creative and innovative ideas, the NCAA must try its due diligence to keep up. Although, we have seen a relaxation of certain rules by the NCAA pertaining to NIL rights; the NCAA continues to show a hesitancy when any creative idea is shown when benefitting both institutions and student-athletes.