Breaking: NCAA stops all NIL collective investigations

The NCAA has halted all investigations into NIL collectives in college football in response to the Tennessee Volunteers’ lawsuit.

According to On3’s Pete Nakos, the NCAA has stopped all investigations into NIL collectives across collegiate athletics in reaction to Tennessee’s lawsuit. The NCAA examined the University of Tennessee over recruitment claims involving starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava.

The University of Tennessee and the Commonwealth of Virginia filed a lawsuit, naming several prominent personalities as defendants. Head coach Josh Heupel, offensive lineman Jackson Lampley, and athletic director Danny White were named as defendants in the action. A court ruled in their favor approximately a week ago, and now it appears that their victory is multiplying.

“In response to this latest order, the Division I Board of Directors directed NCAA enforcement staff to pause and not begin investigations involving third-party participation in NIL-related activities. There will be no penalty for conduct that occurs consistent with the injunction while the injunction is in place. I agree with this decision, while the progress toward long-term solutions is underway and while we await discussions with the attorneys general. In circumstances that are less than ideal, this at least gives the membership notice of the board’s direction related to enforcement.” – NCAA President Charlie Baker in a statement