Georgia Sues Transfer Portal Standout Damon Wilson for $390,000
ATHENS, GA – The University of Georgia Athletic Association has filed a lawsuit against Missouri edge rusher Damon Wilson, seeking $390,000 stemming from a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) contract signed prior to his transfer. The legal action highlights the emerging complexities of NIL agreements as college athletics enters a new revenue-sharing era.
Wilson, a junior who led Missouri with nine sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss this season, signed a $500,000 deal with classic City Collective in December 2024, ahead of Georgia’s College Football Playoff loss to Notre Dame. The contract stipulated payments spread over 14 months, with potential bonuses of $40,000 each should he enter the transfer portal.Wilson received one payment of $30,000 before transferring to Missouri after the 2024 season.
Georgia is pursuing the remaining balance through a liquidated damages claim, arguing Wilson owes the amount stipulated in the contract for early termination. According to ESPN, the original agreement included a clause requiring Wilson to repay unearned portions of the deal if he transferred.
“When the University of Georgia Athletic Association enters binding agreements with student-athletes, we honor our commitments and expect student-athletes to do the same,” athletics spokesperson Steven Drummond said in a statement to ESPN.
This is not the first instance of a school pursuing legal action over NIL-related commitments following a player transfer; Wisconsin recently filed suit against miami regarding Xavier Lucas. However, Georgia’s aggressive approach is drawing attention.
The situation raises questions about the enforceability of NIL contracts and parallels with coaching contracts. Unlike coaches, who typically have their buyouts covered by their new employer, Georgia is seeking direct repayment from Wilson. Lane Kiffin, such as, did not personally cover the remaining balance of his contract with Ole Miss when he accepted the head coaching position at LSU; LSU instead paid Ole Miss a $3 million buyout.
The legal dispute underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the classification of student-athletes. Schools have historically resisted classifying players as employees, a stance that contributed to the delayed implementation of NIL opportunities. As the NCAA and its member institutions navigate the evolving landscape of college athletics and revenue sharing, the legal ramifications of NIL agreements are likely to become increasingly prominent.
