When it comes to choosing an NIL agent, experience and promises aren’t enough. What really matters is reputation—how an agent has treated other athletes, families, and brands.

In a space as new and fast-moving as NIL, reviews and feedback from real athletes are some of the most powerful tools you have. Here’s why reviews matter and how to use them when deciding who to trust with your career.

1. Agents Work for You

It’s easy to forget that agents are service providers. They work for athletes—not the other way around. Reviews help you see whether an agent:

• Follows through on commitments

• Communicates clearly and consistently

• Puts the athlete’s interests first

When you read honest feedback from others, you get a clearer picture than you would from a sales pitch.

2. Spotting Red Flags Early

Reviews can reveal problems that aren’t obvious at first meetings, such as:

• Hidden fees or unclear contracts

• Pressure tactics to sign quickly

• Lack of follow-through on promised deals

• Poor communication or accessibility

Learning from others’ experiences can save you from making the same mistakes.

3. Understanding an Agent’s Strengths

Not every agent is the same. Some excel at building social media sponsorships, while others focus on securing brand partnerships or protecting compliance. Reviews can show you where an agent shines and whether their strengths match your goals.

4. Building Trust Through Transparency

The NIL industry is still young, which means transparency is critical. Agents who embrace reviews and allow feedback on platforms like NIL Agent Directory show that they’re confident in their work and willing to be held accountable.

If an agent avoids or discourages reviews, that’s a sign to pause and ask why.

5. Using Multiple Sources

Reviews on one platform tell part of the story, but the best research includes:

• NIL Agent Directory profiles and reviews

• School compliance office recommendations

• Feedback from teammates, coaches, or families

• Social media presence and professional history

The more perspectives you gather, the better your decision will be.

How to Research an NIL Agent’s Reputation

1. Read verified reviews on trusted platforms.

2. Look for patterns—one bad review isn’t the same as ten.

3. Ask agents directly for references and call them.

4. Talk with your school’s compliance office about their reputation.

5. Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is.

Final Takeaway

Reviews are more than just opinions—they’re real stories from athletes like you. They can help you avoid red flags, identify the right fit, and choose an agent who has a proven track record of putting athletes first.

That’s why the NIL Agent Directory was created: to bring transparency to NIL representation. By reading and sharing reviews, athletes and families can make smarter, safer choices for their future.