Thursday marked the beginning of a significant opportunity for college football players with the unveiling of EA Sports’ latest video game, EA Sports College Football 25.
This development has garnered attention from over 11,000 college football players who now have the option to participate and earn compensation. Among them, LSU’s starting quarterback, Garrett Nussmeier, has already signed on to be featured in the highly anticipated game.
EA Sports has finalized its name, image, and likeness plan for the game and has commenced the opt-in process. Each school can have up to 85 players initially included on rosters for the game’s release this summer.
According to ESPN, players who opt in will receive $600 along with a complimentary copy of the game, which typically retails for $70. Athletes will remain in the game throughout their college careers and can opt out of future editions if they wish. Those who stay in the game for multiple years will receive annual compensation, and transfers will continue to be compensated as long as they are on a roster.
EA Sports’ Vice President of Business Development, Sean O’Brien, expressed pride in the program, highlighting its status as the largest and likely highest-spending initiative of its kind, aiming for equitable distribution of funds among participants.
I’m in the game #CFB25 @EASPORTSCollege #EAAthlete pic.twitter.com/rQ2BmsTFru
— Garrett Nussmeier (@Garrettnuss13) February 22, 2024
In determining the payment structure, EA Sports examined similar name, image, and likeness deals, including those for the Madden NFL series. The agreement with college football players ensures payment regardless of the game’s success and without requiring additional services from the athletes.
The Collegiate Licensing Company, partnering with EA Sports, emphasized the unprecedented scale of the initiative, guaranteeing revenue for every student-athlete involved.
Beyond the opportunity to appear in the game, players who opt in will have access to over 100 additional name, image, and likeness opportunities with EA Sports, such as social media collaborations, on-campus promotions, advertisements, and potential cover athlete roles.
With Nussmeier’s participation, the future of the video game is set to feature the Tigers’ starting quarterback as EA Sports gears up for its summer release.
