Promising NIL updates and outlook for Michigan football recruiting

In todays college football, you need to be willing to pay out the big bucks if you want to compete at the highest level. Recruits are rightfully able to earn money, and the schools that are willing to pay that money are seeing increased success.

Thus far, Michigan football has been slow to adjust to NIL. They were unwilling to be "transactional" and wanted kids to come to Michigan because they love Michigan. That's a valiant thing to stand by, but it's ultimately a losing motto. Look at it from the recruits' point of view -- they can go to a school they love but not have to worry about money until they make it to the NFL if they even do. Or, they can go to a school they might like a bit less and make potentially millions without the pressure of needing to make the NFL. It's an easy choice at that point.

However, Michigan football appears to finally be buying into NIL in a big way. The biggest Michigan news of the week was a video posted by Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy. Portnoy, who is a Michigan alum, pledged to donate $1-$3 million dollars every year to ensure that the Wolverines have a top quarterback in the nation every year. And considering the amount of publicity that statement has received, I don't think he's kidding.

Michigan football needs more than a QB

But quarterback is only one position, and one donor can't create a championship team. Well, Michigan football will be getting some big help shortly in the form of revenue sharing. Michigan will have roughly $23.5 million dollars to divide amongst its athletes, with the expectation being that most of that will go towards football.

Considering that Michigan is in the top five in terms of athletic department revenue, the Wolverines will have a built-in advantage. Yes, Michigan will have an NIL advantage. The Wolverines are going to have the ability to properly pay their players.

These things are happening while donors are becoming more and more open to the cause and Michigan creates more and more opportunities for its players. Ultimately, the days are gone where Michigan can't compete in NIL. While the Wolverines aren't handing out $5 million offers, they are making strides in making competitive offers to elite talent.

Michigan football should be in a good position to land elite talent in the future. Let's hope that comes to fruition. Go blue.