Arby’s Is Now In The NIL Game With A Bunch Of Running Backs

Arby's might not be real barbecue (don't argue it), but that's not stopping the fast-food chain from participating in Name, Image and Likeness. 247Sports announced today that Arby's will pay up to 200 participating Division I running backs $500 each.

The first four to receive compensation have been announced:

The move from Arby's represents the first mass NIL campaign from a national chain, according to the report. The players will each be compensated for posting a video on Twitter or Instagram with the phrase, "Tonight, I'm getting Arby's" with the hashtags #ArbysRBs and #Sponsored.

Arby's Chief Financial Officer Patrick Schwing raved about the deal and what it means for Arby's.

“We know a thing or two about RBs here at Arby’s, and what better way to get into the game for the 2021 college football season than by launching the Arby’s RBs program?" Schwing said. "We’re excited for as many running backs as possible to partner with us this season."

Since the inception of the NIL over the summer, we have seen many big time college athletes sign with endorsements with other fast-food chains such as Bojangles and Zaxby's. While criticized by some, the NIL has been a huge success and is great for college sports.

We've seen its impact among players such as Alabama sophomore quarterback Bryce Young, who has raked in over $1 million in deals already, according to Nick Saban. The Arby's deal should pave the way for big companies to jump in and begin compensating players.

It's the biggest win-win for both the companies and players and should be celebrated. And for the detractors who believe otherwise, I don't think we've seen the play of these athletes tail off because they're getting paid and not playing "for love of the game."

Kudos to lawmakers for passing the NIL law and kudos to Arby's for leading the charge. Borghi feels the same way and couldn't contain his excitement about parterning with Arby's.

“I was so excited to hear that Arby’s was announcing a program for running backs and knew right away I wanted to work with them,” Borghi said. “Working with them to be an Arby’s RB – what could be better?”