Can a New Jersey high school athlete sign NIL deals?
Short answer: Yes. New Jersey has allowed high school NIL since January 1, 2022, under NJSIAA rules, with limits on who can be involved and how the school and team can appear. Families should read the NJSIAA NIL FAQ before signing.
New Jersey high school athletes can earn from their name, image and likeness under rules set by the NJSIAA, which have applied since January 1, 2022. The rules cover what an athlete may do, who may be involved and how the school and team can appear.
What is allowed
Permitted NIL activities include commercial endorsements, promotional activities, social media presence, product and service advertisements and digital items.
What is not allowed
No one employed by a member school, including coaches and administrators, may be involved in the athlete's NIL activity.
The athlete may not reference a member school or the NJSIAA, wear a team jersey, or show the school's name, mascot or logo. The athlete also may not endorse anything during team activities.
What happens if a rule is broken
The NJSIAA reviews violations case by case. Consequences range from a warning to suspension of eligibility, and the athlete may have to return compensation.
Before you sign
The NJSIAA publishes an NIL FAQ, and families should read it before signing. An attorney licensed in New Jersey can review the deal with you before you sign.
Source: NJSIAA NIL FAQ.
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Updated November 14, 2026. General information only, not legal advice for your situation. A complimentary fit-and-intake call is not legal advice; representation requires a written engagement agreement.