Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the country, but passion for college sports looms large here. As the fall sports season is in full swing, you’ll find fans across the state cheering for the Blue Hens and the Hornets with the same intensity as any powerhouse program. College sports here aren’t just entertainment — they’re a source of pride and community. But, beneath the excitement, the future of college — and now high school — athletics is under serious threat for students. Delaware can play a pivotal role in ensuring our athletic programs continue to provide opportunities for years to come.
The issue stems from the inconsistent patchwork of state laws around name, image and likeness. While NIL opportunities have opened new doors for student athletes, the lack of a uniform federal standard has created confusion, inequity and potential long-term damage, particularly for sports that are not currently high revenue generators, including women’s sports and other critical programs that feed our nation’s Olympic talent. These disparities don’t just affect big-time programs; they impact Delaware’s own athletes, who strive to compete on a national level and on an even playing field.
This is where representatives like Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., can make a real difference. In a congressional hearing last year, he expressed concern about the push to classify student athletes as employees of their universities. I agree. We both recognize that this policy change could fundamentally shift the focus away from education, threatening the academic integrity of college sports and hindering potential opportunities for future student athletes.
The current NIL landscape is still in chaos, with legal battles and state-level discrepancies only deepening the confusion. The recent settlement in the House v. NCAA case underscores the fragility of the current system. Without clear national guidelines, athletes, schools and entire sports programs remain vulnerable to exploitation and uncertainty. Delaware athletes and programs could feel the brunt of this chaos if reforms aren’t put in place soon.
Known as the First State, Delaware has a proud history of being a leader in national affairs. This moment presents an opportunity for us to punch above our weight once again. If willing, Sen. Coons can ensure that Delaware leads the charge for sensible, balanced name, image and likeness reform. By pushing for a national standard, Coons and his colleagues can guarantee that all athletes — whether they’re playing football at a top-tier school or competing in Olympic sports at a smaller program — are treated fairly and have the opportunity to succeed.
But we need action from Congress now. Each season that passes without clear rules only deepens the inequities within the college sports system. We can’t afford to wait any longer, especially as discussions around employee classification threaten to upend the opportunities for some student athletes.
By stepping up to lead NIL reform, Sen. Coons can preserve the tradition of college athletics that unites communities, gives student athletes a chance to shine and creates opportunities for leadership and growth far beyond the field.
Let’s hope he and his counterparts can seize this moment to protect the future of college sports — for Delaware and for the entire nation.