The Varsity Can a Billionaire Former NFL Player Fix College Sports?
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Oct 5, 2025 Cody Campbell, a billionaire Texas Tech booster and former college/NFL player, passionately advocates for reforms in college sports through his "Saving College Sports" campaign. He discusses the broken NCAA structure, arguing that current issues stem from outdated governance and media rights models. Cody proposes modernizing the Sports Broadcasting Act, which could potentially add $7 billion in new revenue. He emphasizes the importance of college athletics in building character and opportunities, while also advocating for a more equitable governing body for all sports.
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NIL And Portal Are Symptoms
- Cody Campbell argues NIL and the transfer portal are symptoms of deeper governance failures in college sports.
- He says the NCAA is a "toothless tiger" that cannot enforce rules effectively.
Budget Deficits Threaten Nonrevenue Sports
- Campbell warns FBS schools average a $20M budget deficit and the House settlement doubles athlete pay pressure.
- He says that creates immediate risk of cutting non-revenue and women's sports across the country.
Personal Life Changed By College Sports
- Campbell recounts how playing college football changed his life and his family's multigenerational ties to Texas Tech.
- He frames college sports as a leadership pipeline and national treasure worth preserving.