The question is whether benefactors and businesses will be interested to join forces with Copeland and other college athletes throughout the Sunshine State now allowed to profit on their name, image and likeness.
The July 1 kickoff of new NIL legislation in Florida and 13 other states — and counting — was in some ways more highly anticipated by Copeland and other Gators than the 2021 squad’s Sept. 4 season opener against FAU.
Athletes aim to develop relationships with local businesses to receive goods and services in exchange for social-media mentions or other forms of promotion. Paid autograph sessions or speaking engagements, free or reduced monthly rent, player summer camps and even free leasing of a vehicle could be accessible under the new legislation.