The new world of college athletics now includes NIL deals, as student-athletes can capitalize on their name, image, and likeness.
The Miami Hurricanes, like many other Power Five programs, seem to be benefiting from the new rules, as players have chosen programs based on the NIL deals they receive.
Recently the Canes, under new head coach Mario Cristobal, received the verbal commitment of Jaden Rashada, a four-star quarterback and the No. 45-ranked player in the class of 2023. He’s also the second-highest signal-caller recruit ever for the legendary Coral Gables program.
But did the Canes land Rashada because of a record NIL deal?
A report on On3.com stated that “The U,” and its “chief NIL benefactor,” John Ruiz, gave Rashada a $9.5 million NIL deal to land his services. While Ruiz called the report inaccurate, he did say that he and Rashada are in talks to sign him to an agreement.
The report by https://t.co/QAEr6VfrG1 is inaccurate as it relates to Jaden Rashada.I have never spoken to Mr. Caspino about Jaden Rashada. Mr. Caspino and I spoke about an unrelated player months ago and had a very professional and pleasant conversation. I respect him.
— John H. Ruiz, CEO LifeWallet and Attorney at Law (@JohnHRuiz) June 27, 2022
“After he committed, an agent reached out and we are discussing a deal. Jaden is an amazing kid.”
Ruiz has over 100 University of Miami student-athletes signed to his companies, Life Wallet and Cigarette Racing, for about $7 million.
Did Rashada Almost Have $11 Million In Florida?
Rashada’s NIL attorney Mike Caspino barked that the strong-armed California quarterback almost had an $11 million NIL deal from the Florida Gators. That could be false as well, but the highly vocal Caspino had this to say to On.3 about his client and the Gators.
Thank you Mike. All the best 💪💪💪. https://t.co/rahkXbD4zL
— John H. Ruiz, CEO LifeWallet and Attorney at Law (@JohnHRuiz) June 27, 2022
“Jaden left millions on the table… Millions. He did not pick the highest offer. He went there because he loves Miami the coaches, the opportunity.”
The goal is to take advantage of the NIL, but choosing a school should come down to fit, desire, and who gives you the best opportunity to play at the next level. Recruiting is becoming a de facto pay-for-play.
Ruiz Had Run-In With Hurricanes Basketball Star In April
In April, Hurricanes star basketball player Isaiah Wong, who helped lead the Canes to the Elite Eight, demanded a bump in his NIL deal. This is after rumors of a transfer player Nijel Pack signing a two-year, $800,000 NIL deal, which is eight times the deal Wong signed.
Glad Wong didn’t enter the portal. This is a great youngster and his mom is amazing. The deal remains the same, however, as I said day one I will help him get other NIL Deals. @AdamPapas87 saved the day. Great job Adam in calling me and getting the parties to speak! https://t.co/6MTOwtcXa4
— John H. Ruiz, CEO LifeWallet and Attorney at Law (@JohnHRuiz) April 29, 2022
Wong was upset that a transfer got more than him and threatened to transfer if he didn’t get a bigger deal. Ruiz was unfazed by the semi-threat and stated that he doesn’t adjust deals. Cooler heads prevailed, and Wong stayed at the school after Ruiz agreed to help him land other deals.
In the case of Rashada, let’s see if he signs with the Canes in December with schools like LSU, Florida, Texas A&M, Ole Miss, and others still clamoring for his services. Until he’s signed on the dotted line, these programs won’t let up on the possibility of flipping a game-changing signal-caller.
Pay-for-play is a real thing and the new era of college athletics. It looks like it’s now “adapt or die.”
