BYU Navigates NIL Era While Upholding Values

“How is BYU gonna do this, right? How in the world?” That was the question NFL legend and BYU great Steve Young had when name, image, and likeness (NIL) compensation transformed college football in 2021.

Surprisingly, BYU has thrived since 2021. The team is tied with Boise State for the ninth-most wins in college football. At one point, they ranked No. 7 in the AP poll and even reached No. 2 after defeating Notre Dame. A victory over No. 3 Utah in the Holy War on Saturday could elevate them to the top of the polls again.

“I’m not throwing anyone under the bus,” BYU Vice President of Advancement Keith Vorkink told OutKick. “But there’s rumored payment of players long before NIL. We’re a university that does our best to adhere to whatever the policies are at the time. We’re grateful for the avenue that opened up for us to participate in that space and do so in compliance.”

BYU, a private institution sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Provo, Utah, remains committed to its core values even in the NIL era. The school’s approach is to participate in the NIL market without compromising its mission.

BYU’s athletic director, Tom Holmoe, and head football coach, Kalani Sitake, emphasize maintaining the university’s identity. They want recruits to be attracted to the unique culture rather than the financial opportunities alone. This approach resonates with players and management alike.

Vorkink highlighted how some top athletes chose BYU for reasons beyond money. Freshman star Bruce Branch and quarterback Bear Bachmeier are examples of players who could have pursued larger offers elsewhere but decided to stay. The university believes that understanding and embracing its mission leads to a positive student-athlete experience.

The honor code at BYU is a significant factor in its recruitment process. It requires students to adhere to specific behavioral standards, which can be a draw for some. Young noted that the uniqueness of BYU’s environment can be inviting for certain recruits.

“There’s big money involved. Money is, we all know money is dangerous, man. There’s fits and starts to it too, trying to figure it out. It is the wild west, and it’s not simple,” Young said.

Young commended Sitake and the administration for maintaining BYU’s character despite the financial pressures of NIL. There is agreement among university leaders that they prefer student-athletes join for the culture BYU offers.

Both Young and Vorkink recognize the need for regulation in the NIL system. They advocate for legislative solutions to provide more stability. Young stated that Congress could reconcile the interests of providing fair compensation with maintaining the integrity of college sports.

“We’ll compete, but we’re going to compete in what I call the BYU way,” Young concluded. The school’s approach has resonated with recruits and helped establish a robust environment for young athletes.