Last verified: September 3, 2026. Tennessee permits high school NIL subject to TSSAA rules and school-policy restrictions.
2026 Tennessee High School NIL Status
Permitted. Student-athletes can pursue qualifying NIL activity when they comply with current TSSAA amateurism, eligibility and school requirements.
What Tennessee Athletes Should Avoid
- Payment for statistics, wins or playing time.
- NIL used as a recruiting or transfer inducement.
- Unauthorized school logos or uniforms.
- Restricted product categories.
- Skipping required disclosure or school review.
Can Tennessee Athletes Sell Merchandise?
Personal NIL merchandise may be possible when it is based on rights the athlete controls. School marks remain separate intellectual property.
Building NIL Value
Football and basketball may get headlines, but Tennessee athletes in volleyball, baseball, softball, soccer, track, wrestling, golf and other sports can also create value through local audiences and personal brands.
See Tennessee in the 2026 Influxer 50-state guide.
Official Tennessee Resources
Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) — official resources
Check the school-year version and any later association notices. If a linked handbook has been replaced, obtain the current edition from your school or association before relying on a rule number.
Questions for Your Athletic Director
- Which association and school policy apply to this athlete?
- Must the agreement or promotional materials be disclosed, and when?
- Are the proposed logos, uniform, facilities and sponsor category allowed?
- What parent or guardian steps apply before signing?