Ex-Michigan Players Sue NCAA for NIL Compensation

Four former Michigan football stars, including Braylon Edwards and Denard Robinson, have filed a $50 million class-action lawsuit against the NCAA and Big Ten Network for the unauthorized use of their name, image, and likeness (NIL) before 2016. The plaintiffs argue that the NCAA profited from their performances on television and merchandise without compensation. The 73-page lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan, seeks to right this alleged wrong that has been perpetuated on college athletes for decades. Although the NCAA changed its rules in 2021 to allow current athletes to profit from their NIL, this lawsuit aims to secure retroactive compensation for former athletes. The lawsuit includes claims of unreasonable restraint of trade, conspiracy to restrain trade, and unjust enrichment. The plaintiffs' attorney, Jim Acho, emphasized that this suit is not against the University of Michigan but targets the NCAA for its longstanding policies.