NFL Draft week is here, but the transfer portal is just as active, with a significant decline in early draft declarations attributed to college athletes profiting off their name, image, and likeness. Fifty-eight underclassmen declared for this year's draft, the lowest since 2010. The trend of athletes staying in school for NIL opportunities rather than opting for late-round picks in the NFL is being examined.

• Fifty-eight underclassmen declared for this year's NFL Draft.
• The decline in early draft declarations is significant, down from 130 three years ago.

The debate continues on whether staying in college for NIL opportunities is a better choice for athletes projected to be mid- to late-round picks in the draft.

• 494 scholarship players have entered the transfer portal, with 48% from Power 5 schools and 52% from the Group of 5.
• Twenty-five percent of transfers are repeat transfers, in line with predictions for this cycle.
• The defensive line is the position with the most transfers at 95.

As the NFL Draft approaches, questions arise about potential draft scenarios, including bold predictions, possible player falls, and surprise early picks.

The intersection of college football, the NFL Draft, and the transfer portal highlights the evolving landscape of player decisions influenced by NIL opportunities, setting a new trend that prioritizes entrepreneurial avenues for student-athletes over early draft entry.