Former Boise State Broncos running back Ashton Jeanty, who nearly broke Barry Sanders' single-season rushing record in 2024, recently shared his insights on navigating the world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) while pursuing his NFL aspirations.

Jeanty, whose NIL valuation reached an estimated $1.6 million, partnered with brands like SAXX underwear and the Boise Hawks. However, he emphasizes the importance of prioritizing athletic performance over financial gains for aspiring college athletes. "Don't chase the money," Jeanty advises. "Chase your dreams. I focused on becoming a top NFL running back, and the opportunities followed. I saw players securing bigger deals who weren't as skilled. It's about dedication and hard work, not entitlement."

Describing the NIL landscape as the "wild, wild west," Jeanty adopted a professional approach. "My focus was on aligning with brands that reflected my values," he explained. "While compensation is important, it's not my primary motivator."

Having declared for the NFL Draft, Jeanty is projected to be a high-round pick, proving that his dedication to the sport has paid off.