Female athletes surge in NIL deals as Learfield reports a 123% jump in participation

July 29, 2026

Female college athletes are participating in name, image and likeness opportunities at a much faster rate than before, with Learfield reporting a 123% jump in female athlete participation in NIL compensation activities over the 2025-26 fiscal year. Female athlete engagement in NIL activities more than doubled in 2026, rising from 2,136 to 4,772. AP