So... it's a new year and I'm not looking to cause consternation and angst. I thought I was clear, but I guess I wasn't. What I'm saying is, UT is looking to build a good culture and strong, stable programs, and they have a plan for what that entails and the kind of people who are a good fit. It doesn't mean UT doesn't want good players or doesn't want to win. Everybody has their own definition of how many wins and which players are "good enough."
UT is working with Spyre on NILs, but finding players who fit what UT needs and matching deals to that is a complex process. Spyre's leadership is a group of UT alums, but the company is not part of the university-- it's a vendor partner. UT's role is clarification and compliance, not donor commitments. Spyre and other affiliates build the deals, offer opportunities and create sponsorships and endorsements, using outside funding secured by the agencies, not UTAD.
If a top player is interested in coming to UT-- and some are not-- then Spyre can try to work a deal, using the resources available. Other programs are higher on top players' wish lists right now, and other programs can match whatever UT brings to the table. NIL was always going to be a hornet's nest, with the level of compliance and integrity dependent on the university. It was never going to level the playing field or fund lucrative deals for more than a small subset of players. It's a moving target that favors high-profile programs with championship aspirations and deep pocket donors who want to win at all costs. Guidelines vary by school, and things may be completely different next year-- just like UT football. While it all works itself out, UT will keep rebuilding with the players our coaches think are a good fit and are open to what UT offers. Will that translate to more wins and close the gap with our rivals? We'll see.
