NFL, NBA and their unions back new college sports legislation in 2026

The NFL, NBA and their players' associations endorsed a federal college sports bill introduced by Senators Cruz and Cantwell to support athlete protections and media rights.

Bodies back college legislation The NFL, the NFL Players Association and the National Basketball Players Association told Congress on Tuesday they support the Protect College Sports Act. They praised specific parts of the bill and urged lawmakers to keep negotiating as it moves through the legislative process. The NFL highlighted its support for the voluntary pooling of media rights under the Sports Broadcasting Act, a stance at odds with the SEC and Big Ten. The groups framed their endorsement as critical during a pivotal moment for the bill. ## Committee review and vote timeline The Commerce Committee is scheduled to vote on the Protect College Sports Act after a markup session on Thursday. Before the full Senate can consider the bill, the committee must advance it. The markup session allows members to propose amendments before casting their votes. A simple majority of the committee’s members must approve the bill for it to progress, meaning 15 out of the 28 members must vote in favor, regardless of party affiliation. ## NFL’s statement on college athletics The NFL said in a statement that robust, stable and successful collegiate athletics are vital to the future of American sports, including Olympic disciplines. It called the legislation an important step toward achieving that goal for college athletes and institutions. The league pointed to proven models like the voluntary pooling of media rights under the Sports Broadcasting Act, which it said supports widespread, fan-friendly access to NFL games. The NFL added that this approach will also help college athletics and ensure fans can watch their favorite games amid today’s evolving media landscape. ## Key provisions in the bipartisan bill The bill, drafted by Senator Ted Cruz of Texas and Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington, would grant the NCAA an antitrust exemption to enforce several rules recently challenged in court. These rules include limiting athlete transfers, setting eligibility standards and prohibiting schools from recruiting coaches during the season. The legislation aims to address ongoing legal disputes that have disrupted traditional college sports governance. Supporters argue it provides much-needed clarity and stability. ## Players’ associations highlight athlete protections The NFL Players Association and the National Basketball Players Association jointly stated the bill includes important protections for college athletes. They emphasized guarantees for name, image and likeness rights, as well as medical and healthcare benefits. The unions called for sustained engagement and negotiations among stakeholders to strengthen the bill as it travels through Congress. Their goal is to ensure athletes are safeguarded and empowered throughout the process. ## Conference support and opposition The Big 12 and Atlantic Coast Conference have expressed support for the bill. However, earlier in the month, the Big Ten and SEC released a statement opposing the previous version of the bill. They argued the proposal left critical issues unresolved, including insufficient federal preemption over state laws. Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti and SEC commissioner Greg Sankey did not immediately respond when asked for comment on the current draft. ## NFL looks ahead to legislative process The NFL said it looks forward to continuing collaboration with Congressional leaders as the bill advances through the legislative process. The league framed its involvement as part of a broader commitment to the future of college sports and the athletes who compete in them. It positioned itself as a partner in shaping policies that support both institutions and competitors. The NFL’s engagement signals growing league influence over college sports governance debates.