Auburn is expected to share roughly $6 million with players in a groundbreaking NIL deal tied to the program’s appearance in the Aflac Kickoff Game against Baylor on Sept. 5, sources with knowledge of the agreement told CBS Sports. The money will be distributed among up to 24 Auburn players under a guarantee model that includes marketing commitments and promotional appearances. Players will also be paid through a revenue-sharing component tied directly to the game’s ticket sales.
The deal, first announced Monday, marks the first time a neutral-site college football game has incorporated NIL compensation for players. Peach Bowl, Inc., has partnered with third-party entities to structure the arrangement, which runs from July through kickoff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Players will take part in a series of “activations” promoting the game and its events. Those include social media posts, public appearances, advertisements, in-game promotions, media interviews, and signage and branding opportunities.