NIL deals approved for Florida high school athletes [Video]

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — High school athletes in Florida, just like their college counterparts, will be able to make money off the field through endorsements and other kinds of deals.

While saying additional protections are needed, the State Board of Education on Wednesday ratified a plan approved last month by the Florida High School Athletic Association that will allow high school athletes to get paid through name, image and likeness, or “NIL,” deals.

Board of Education Chairman Ben Gibson said the athletic association, which regulates high-school sports, must prioritize the protection of student-athletes, most of whom will be minors.

“This could be a great opportunity for some student-athletes, but we want to make sure they do it in a manner that they are protected and not exploited,” Gibson said.

The plan, which overhauls a …