Oklahoma State is going to have to find a new way to promote NIL donations that is more on the Q.T. than using QR codes.
The NCAA blocked Oklahoma State from placing NIL-linked QR codes on the back of football player helmets because the 1.5-inch squares are considered “advertising and/or commercial parks,” which are not permitted.
Oklahoma State considers the “revolutionary” QR codes — which would not have been visible in the stadium but added for the audience at home — to be helmet decals.
“We disagree with the interpretation of the rule but will abide by it and work with the appropriate groups to lead on the needed change,” Oklahoma State athletic director Chad Weiberg said in a statement. “Our people came up with an innovative concept to raise NIL value of our student-athletes, but ultimately, it just serves as the latest example of how college sports are evolving at a faster pace than the rulebook.”
Oklahoma State has the Big 12’s support in pushing the boundaries of fundraising now that athletes are capitalizing on their name, image and likeness.
NIL plus the transfer portal has created a free-agency-like system in college sports.
“As we enter this new age of college athletics, the Big 12 Conference welcomes the opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation and creativity,” commissioner Brett Yormark said. “I look forward to partnering with the NCAA and my fellow conference commissioners in an effort to modernize legislation that enables our schools to drive value for our student-athletes.”
The Cowboys did not wear the QR codes during Saturday’s season-opening 44-20 victory against South Dakota State, but the image was visible throughout Boone Pickens Stadium, including on the 6,160-square foot video board.
Donations go to the general NIL fund that benefits every athlete on the roster, the school said.
The NCAA previously has banned social media handles and hashtags and ruled that the QR codes fall in a similar vein.