NCAA Settlement Opens New Doors for Walk-On Athletes in Boulder

In Colorado Boulder, a significant change is on the horizon for student-athletes. Recently, a settlement worth $2.8 billion was agreed upon between the NCAA and former student-athletes, allowing schools to begin paying athletes directly. This development brings a wave of excitement, especially for walk-on athletes who often strive for their dreams without scholarships or guaranteed spots on their teams.

One such athlete is Nano Watson, a walk-on football player at the University of Colorado Boulder. Watson expressed his amazement discussing the settlement, saying, “I was surprised. It’s crazy. That’s a lot of money.” His journey has been tough, working hard without financial backing, but now, thanks to the settlement, there are new possibilities on the horizon.

Watson explained that this potential change could significantly enhance his chances of receiving a scholarship. “That gives me an opportunity to, you know, earn a scholarship — a better opportunity. I’ve been working on trying to get a scholarship these past two and a half years,” he stated. The struggle is personal for Watson, as tuition has placed a heavy burden on his family. “My dad is really helping me out, paying for school and stuff. So, not necessarily me, but for my family. And, you know, I just want to give back to my family too, because they put me in a position to be here.”

CU Athletic Director Rick George has acknowledged the impact of the settlement, stating, “…we are prepared to participate in revenue sharing with all of our student-athletes up to the prescribed cap utilizing athletic department funds.” While admitting the financial implications are considerable, he trusts the program’s foundations will lead to success.

This shift represents uncharted territory for many college athletes. However, star players like Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter have already embraced the new landscape driven by NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and increased exposure. As Watson and others navigate this transition from unpaid walk-on to potential paycheck, the NCAA settlement is set to take effect this summer, with institutions like CU leading the charge.

Similarly, Colorado State University has signaled its commitment to financially supporting its athletes, sharing updates on social media platforms. The landscape for college athletics is evolving, and for many, this change could spell new opportunities.