EA Sports Increases NIL Payments for College Football 26 Players to $1,500

The company will allocate over $16.5 million for athlete compensation, reflecting the franchise's record-breaking success and commitment to fairness.

EA Sports will pay $1,500 per player for their name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights in College Football 26, more than doubling last year's $600 payment.
The NIL program remains voluntary and equitable, allowing more than 11,000 players to opt in or out using the COMPASS NIL app.
Players who opt in will also receive a Deluxe Edition of the game, with additional payments available for brand ambassadors and cover athletes.
College Football 25 became the best-selling sports video game in U.S. history, driving EA's decision to increase NIL payments to recognize athletes' contributions.
College Football 26 is set for a July 2025 release, continuing the franchise's momentum and expanding its NIL initiatives.