If NIL existed during Johnny Manziel’s career, it could have significantly boosted his earnings and brand, potentially transforming his legacy into a multimillion-dollar football icon.

Johnny Manziel, often heralded as one of college football’s most electrifying talents, captured the imagination of fans and critics alike during his time at Texas A&M. His dynamic playing style, charismatic personality, and meteoric rise made him a household name. Yet, despite his undeniable talent and the national attention he garnered, his legacy remains complicated, often overshadowed by off-field controversies and the lack of financial benefits during his college years.

The advent of NIL—Name, Image, Likeness—has revolutionized college sports, allowing student-athletes to profit from their personal brands legally. If NIL had existed during Johnny Manziel’s college career, it could have dramatically altered his financial trajectory, his legacy’s perception, and his post-college opportunities. This essay explores how NIL could have transformed Johnny Manziel from a celebrated athlete into a multimillion-dollar football icon, examining the potential upside, challenges, and long-term implications.

Johnny Manziel’s Rise and the Limitations of His Era

Johnny Manziel burst onto the scene in 2012, winning the Heisman Trophy as a redshirt freshman and becoming the first freshman to do so. His improvisational style, uncanny ability to extend plays, and knack for thrilling crowds made him the first true college football superstar of the social media era. His highlight reels, charismatic interviews, and on-field exploits made him a national phenomenon.

However, during his college years, NCAA rules strictly prohibited athletes from profiting off their athletic fame. Manziel’s earnings from his play were limited to scholarships and NIL restrictions, which at the time provided little room for athletes to capitalize on their personal brands. Despite his popularity, he could not monetize his image legally, leaving significant financial opportunities on the table.

The consequences of this limitation became apparent later in his career. Manziel’s transition to the NFL was marked by high expectations but also by off-field issues, partly stemming from the lack of financial stability and endorsement opportunities that could have provided both motivation and financial security. If NIL had been available, the landscape for athletes like Manziel would have been radically different.

The Potential Impact of NIL on Johnny Manziel’s Earnings

1. Early Moneticization of Fame

Had NIL been available during Manziel’s college years, he could have signed endorsement deals with brands, leveraging his popularity. His marketability was clear—he was a media magnet, featured in commercials, and had a widespread fan following. With NIL, he could have partnered with companies in sports apparel, gaming, energy drinks, and local Texas brands eager to capitalize on his fame.

2. Revenue from Personal Branding

Manziel’s social media presence, which was already growing rapidly during his college days, could have been monetized directly. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and later TikTok gave athletes the ability to earn from sponsored posts, brand partnerships, and appearances. This could have turned his viral moments into lucrative endorsement deals, significantly increasing his income.

3. Personal Appearances and Autographs

Although autographs were already a source of income for some athletes, NIL would have formalized and expanded this revenue stream. Manziel could have commanded fees for signing autographs at events, participating in promotional campaigns, or hosting football camps—and done so legally and transparently.

4. Building a Multimillion-Dollar Brand

With a strategic approach, Manziel could have built a comprehensive personal brand, extending beyond football. He could have launched apparel lines, digital content channels, or even ventured into media or entertainment, turning his athletic fame into a long-term business empire.

5. Long-term Financial Security

A successful NIL-driven brand could have provided Manziel with financial stability beyond his playing career, allowing him to invest, start ventures, or support charitable causes. This financial foundation would have also helped him avoid some of the pitfalls that have affected other athletes who lacked proper income streams.

How NIL Could Have Shaped Johnny Manziel’s Legacy

1. Elevating His Status as a Football Icon

Manziel’s on-field brilliance was undeniable, but without the ability to monetize his fame, his legacy remained somewhat constrained. NIL could have amplified his status, turning him into a household name akin to modern sports superstars. His highlight reels, combined with lucrative endorsement deals, would have kept his name in the mainstream long after college.

2. Reframing Public Perception

Part of Manziel’s legacy has been clouded by controversy—questions about his professionalism, off-field behavior, and the NCAA’s restrictions. With NIL, he could have been portrayed more as a savvy entrepreneur and brand ambassador, helping reshape his image from a troubled prodigy to a successful businessman.

3. Creating a Lasting Cultural Impact

Manziel’s style and personality captured the cultural zeitgeist. With NIL, he could have leveraged this influence to build a multimedia empire—launching podcasts, hosting shows, or creating content that resonates with younger audiences. This diversification would have cemented his legacy as a cultural icon beyond football.

4. Providing Mentorship and Inspiration

A financially successful Manziel could have served as an example for future athletes, demonstrating the importance of branding and entrepreneurship. His journey could have inspired others to maximize NIL opportunities responsibly, fostering a new generation of athlete-entrepreneurs.

Challenges and Risks

While the potential benefits are substantial, NIL also brings challenges that could have affected Manziel’s career:

1. Overexposure and Market Saturation

Managing multiple endorsement deals and media appearances can lead to overexposure, potentially diluting a player’s brand or distracting from athletic development. For a high-profile athlete like Manziel, careful brand management would have been essential.

2. Legal and Contractual Complexities

NIL deals require navigating contracts, endorsements, and compliance with rules, which can be complex, especially for younger athletes. Missteps could have impacted his reputation or financial stability.

3. Impact on Amateur Status and NCAA Eligibility

Although NIL is designed to be permissible, the evolving landscape still presents gray areas. If not managed properly, athletes risk jeopardizing their amateur status or facing NCAA sanctions.

4. Public Scrutiny and Personal Responsibility

With fame and wealth come scrutiny. Managing personal conduct and public image would have been critical to long-term success. Manziel’s past controversies highlight how off-field issues can derail a promising career.

Long-Term Prospects and Legacy Enhancement

Had NIL been available during his college years, Johnny Manziel’s legacy might have looked very different:

• Financially: He could have amassed millions before turning professional, setting him up for a successful post-football career.
• Culturally: His brand could have extended into entertainment, business, and philanthropy, maintaining relevance well beyond his playing days.
• Mentally and Motivational: Success stories of athletes leveraging NIL inspire other players to think beyond the game, fostering a mindset of entrepreneurship.

Furthermore, his story could have contributed to the evolving narrative around athlete empowerment, demonstrating how talented players can capitalize on their personal brands responsibly and profitably.

A Hypothetical Future

While Johnny Manziel’s actual career was shaped by circumstances unique to his era, imagining a world where NIL existed during his prime reveals the immense potential for athletes to shape their own legacies financially and culturally. The opportunities for endorsements, branding, and entrepreneurship could have transformed him from a college football legend into a multimillion-dollar icon, with lasting influence beyond the gridiron.

In many ways, Manziel’s story underscores the importance of athlete empowerment and the need for structures that allow talented players to benefit from their fame. As NIL continues to evolve, future athletes will have the chance to learn from pioneers like Manziel—who, with the right opportunities, could have turned their athletic brilliance into enduring, lucrative legacies.