College athletes are now cashing in on their fame—and it’s changing the sports memorabilia game. The NIL boom has opened the door for signed merchandise from rising stars, making college collectibles more dynamic, diverse, and valuable than ever.
The landscape of college sports has undergone a seismic shift since the NCAA’s 2021 decision to allow athletes to profit from their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). What began as a legal breakthrough has now blossomed into a booming marketplace—one that’s reshaping how fans collect and connect with their favorite college stars.
For sports memorabilia collectors, this means earlier access to autographed gear from rising athletes, often before they hit the professional stage.
College Football’s NIL Powerhouses
Football remains the centerpiece of NIL-driven memorabilia, with top players commanding major attention from fans and collectors alike. Here are some of the hottest names in the game right now:
- Arch Manning (Texas QB) – With a famous last name and growing on-field presence, Manning’s NIL valuation tops $5.5 million, making his autographed gear highly desirable. Shop Arch Manning
- Carson Beck (Miami QB) – A transfer with a strong arm and rising profile, Beck’s memorabilia is gaining momentum as he leads a high-powered offense. Shop Carson Beck
- Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State WR) – A dynamic playmaker with elite speed, Smith’s signed items are becoming collector favorites as he builds his legacy at Ohio State. Shop Jeremiah Smith
- Cam Coleman (Auburn WR) – Recently signed to a NIL deal with Nike, Coleman’s memorabilia is surging in popularity thanks to his breakout performances. Shop Cam Coleman
- DJ Lagway (Florida QB) – A dual-threat quarterback with charisma and upside, Lagway’s early autographs are already drawing interest from fans betting on his future. Shop DJ Lagway
Basketball Stars Making NIL Waves
Basketball athletes—especially those with strong social media followings—are also cashing in on NIL and driving demand for signed merchandise:
- Braden Smith (Purdue Guard) – A senior leader and preseason All-American, Smith’s consistency and leadership have made him a cornerstone for Purdue. His rising NIL profile and tournament experience make his memorabilia increasingly collectible. Shop Braden Smith
- JuJu Watkins (USC Guard) – One of the most marketable women’s basketball players, Watkins leads the NIL charts with multiple brand deals and growing memorabilia appeal. Shop JuJu Watkins
- Boogie Fland (Florida Guard) – A dynamic freshman with elite playmaking skills, Fland has quickly become a fan favorite. His NIL valuation is soaring thanks to his on-court flair and strong social media following. Shop Boogie Fland
What This Means for Collectors
The NIL boom has created a new tier of memorabilia—college-signed items with professional potential. Collectors now have access to:
- Early-career autographs from future pros
- Limited-edition drops tied to key games or milestones
- Personalized merchandise with inscriptions or custom branding
These items offer not just sentimental value, but also long-term investment potential as athletes transition to the pros.
Where to Find NIL Memorabilia
SportsCollectibles.com is your top source for NIL-signed gear alongside traditional pro merchandise. As the market grows, expect more partnerships between athletes and trusted platforms to ensure authenticity and accessibility.
The Future of College Collectibles
The NIL era has redefined what it means to be a college athlete—and for collectors, it’s opened the door to a new generation of memorabilia. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a savvy investor, now is the time to explore the evolving world of college athlete collectibles.
