National Signing Day: Read Before You Sign

National Signing Day is upon us again in college football.  For student-athletes signing their National Letter of Intent (NLI), the day is full of excitement.  However, the NLI is undoubtedly a one-sided agreement, drafted by the colleges, for the colleges.

When student-athletes got wise, and began negotiating escape clauses in the NLI (such as for when the head coach leaves the school), the colleges added a provision that prevented the negotiation of any additional terms.  This type of take-it or leave-it contract is called a contract of adhesion and may be found unenforceable in a court of law.  Nevertheless, the practical advice for most student-athletes is to carefully read and analyze the NLI, and once he or she understands its terms, to sign it.

Despite the excitement that accompanies National Signing Day, student-athletes should be aware that they are entering into a binding contract, and they must be aware of the terms of the contract.

I’ve written about a number of issues relating to the NLI over the years:

Is the National Letter of Intent Legally Enforceable?

Connecticut Sports Recruiting: National Letter of Intent Basics

The Final Word on the National Letter of Intent

Signing Day Brings National Letter of Intent (NLI) into Focus

National Signing Day: Beware of the National Letter of Intent