Waverly Advisors

Name Image and Likeness – I’m a College Athlete; My Brand is my Income. Now What?

In this video, Carson Eddy, CFPยฎ and Grant W. Cardwell, CPA, of Waverly Advisors discuss the rapidly evolving world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and what it means for todayโ€™s college athletes.

As former Division I athletes themselves, Carson and Grant share firsthand perspective on how dramatically the landscape has changed with student-athletes now earning life-changing income at a young age. They break down the financial opportunities NIL presents, along with the responsibilities that come with it.

Key topics covered include:

  • Understanding the current NIL landscape
  • Tax planning strategies for NIL income
  • The importance of proper entity structure
  • Investment management and long-term financial planning
  • Estate planning and insurance considerations
  • How to choose the right financial advisor
  • Why taking a holistic approach is critical

Carson and Grant emphasize the importance of being intentional with every dollar earned and building strong financial habits early especially given the short career window many athletes face. Their goal is to help athletes, parents, and advisors think long-term so that todayโ€™s NIL earnings can create lasting financial stability.

If you are an athlete, parent, or advisor navigating NIL opportunities, this conversation provides practical guidance on protecting, growing, and maximizing your earnings both on and off the field.

Learn more about how Waverly Advisors helps athletes take a comprehensive approach to financial planning.

To reach Carson Eddy, CFPยฎ – Financial Planner
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 205.314.6212

To reach Grant Cardwell, CPA – Partner, Wealth Advisor
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 205.769.3385

Music Credit:
Song: Olif โ€” Be Yourself
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHqV1VCWrpo

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

The information presented in this document is for general informational and educational purposes and is not specific to any individualโ€™s personal circumstances. Nothing in this document constitutes, or shall be relied upon as, investment, legal, or tax advice to any person. The information in this document is provided effective as of the date of its publication, does not necessarily reflect the most current status or development, and is subject to revision at any time. Investing involves risk, and past performance does not necessarily predict future results. None of Waverly, or any of its officers, members, or affiliates, in any way warrant or guarantee the success of any action that anyone may take in reliance on any statements or recommendations in this document.

Waverly Advisors, LLC (โ€œWaverlyโ€) is an independent investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. More information about Waverly, including investment strategies, fees and objectives can be found in Waverlyโ€™s ADV Part 2A Brochure and Form CRS (Customer Relationship Summary), available at https://waverly-advisors.com/.

You should not assume that any information provided serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from Waverly. This information should be used as a reference only.

Investment advisory services are offered by Waverly Advisors, LLC, an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
ยฉ 2026 Waverly Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved.

For more information, please see our other important disclosures: Disclosure – Waverly Advisors (https://waverly-advisors.com/disclosure/)

      Share this post on:โ€‹

      MEET THE AUTHORS
      Carson Eddy
      Financial Planner

      Carson Eddy has been with the firm since October of 2022.ย  He serves as Financial Planner with Waverly Advisors. Shouldering a variety of responsibilities, Carson is responsible for the creation and delivery of comprehensive financial plans for high-net-worth individuals and families, as well as following through with clients on the implementation of the plans. Carson holds a Mastersโ€™ degree in Family Financial Planning and Counseling at the University of Alabama and has successfully completed the Certified Financial Planner exam.

      Grant W. Cardwell
      Partner, Wealth Advisor

      Grant Cardwell joined Waverly Advisors in 2007 and is a Partner in Waverly Advisors. Grant is a leader of the High Net Worth Client Service Team, continuing his focus on tax planning and consulting after spending seven years in the Firmโ€™s Tax Department. By building relationships, understanding each clientโ€™s specific situation, and listening to their specific needs, he is able to guide clients through tax-conscious comprehensive financial planning, helping them achieve what is important to them. Grant resides in Birmingham with his wife Jill and two daughters.