Should College Athletes be Allowed to Receive Money for Autographs? [POLL]

Should college athletes be allowed to sell their autographs if someone wants to buy them? The NCAA says no. In fact, if the NCAA investigation finds that Johnny Manziel, whom an east coast broker claims was paid $7,500 for signing approximately 300 mini and full sized helmets, has violated NCAA Bylaw 12.5.2.1.

Subsequent to becoming a student-athlete, an individual shall not be eligible for participation in
intercollegiate athletics if the individual:
a. Accepts any remuneration for or permits the use of his or her name or picture to
advertise, recommend or promote directly the sale or use of a commercial
product or service of any kind, or
b. Receives remuneration for endorsing a commercial product or service through
the individual’s use of such product or service

I say why not? The NCAA is making so much money off the backs of these kids with nothing more than the chance to get a college degree with the scholarship they provide, that if a kid can earn a few dollars for a few hours away from his studies of both his books and his playbook, so be it.

There are no guarantees for most college athletes that they will make the pros. They also receive no money from the NCAA if their likeness or helmets or jerseys are sold. Why not let the kid make a few dollars signing autographs if he can? What do you think?

Take our poll and share your thoughts in the comment section below.