Michigan Recruiting: Why 2023 is Most Important Season in History

Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy talks to teammates before taking a snap from center Drake Nugent against Indiana during the first half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023.
Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy talks to teammates before taking a snap from center Drake Nugent against Indiana during the first half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023. /
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Warde Manuel (Detroit Free Press) /

Momentum would build with NIL

We’re at a crucial point for NIL. Michigan has been behind the 8-ball thus far, but momentum is beginning to build. There has been progress when it comes to contract talks for Harbaugh, and that is thought to be directly related to NIL progress as well.

While this is a bit more speculative, money tends to come with success. If Michigan is having success at the highest level, opportunities are going to arise out of that success. Brands are going to want to do more and more deals with the Wolverines, and these players are going to get more and more exposure.

Even if the University itself doesn’t implement drastic changes, there’s going to be a massive increase in NIL opportunities. That’ll increase player earnings and in turn, positively impact recruiting.

However, the Wolverines are already seeing positive signs on the NIL front. As reported by ON3’s Chris Balas, Athletic Director Warde Manuel, who has been a roadblock in terms of NIL, seems to be embracing NIL much more.

This is huge for Michigan, because many big donors have been skeptical about making NIL donations since the athletic department hasn’t been on the same page. With Warde’s full support, we could expect a huge increase in NIL donations, which could make Michigan’s NIL program much better.