If it’s in the game, it’s in the game!
With EA Sports gearing up to launch the first college football game in over a decade this summer, a significant development unfolds as thousands of players become eligible for NIL benefits starting this Thursday, marking their inclusion in the game.
Athletes representing all 134 FBS teams have the option to opt-in to feature in the video game through Learfield’s COMPASS NIL app. As per a spokesperson from EA Sports speaking to Chris Vannini of The Athletic, players who choose to opt-in will receive $600 along with a complimentary copy of the game. Moreover, a select few players will be designated as ambassadors for the video game, making them eligible for additional NIL benefits.
For those who opt-out, a generic avatar and name will replace their likeness on the roster.
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The licensing process for players’ inclusion in the game is managed by OneTeam Partners, a longstanding collaborator with EA Sports. OneTeam has a track record of handling group licensing, including partnerships with the NFL Players Association for the Madden franchise, as well as with the MLS and NWSL for EA’s soccer titles, as per Vannini’s report.
Shelbi Hendricks, Senior Vice President at OneTeam, underscored the significance of this inclusion, stating, “Including players in the return of the EA Sports College Football franchise guarantees they receive their direct benefits.” She emphasized the partnership’s focus on authentic representation and highlighted the pivotal role current players play in shaping the game.
While an official release date for the new video game remains pending, anticipation continues to build as players prepare to embrace this groundbreaking opportunity.
