The Protect College Sports Act of 2026 aims to enhance the rights and welfare of student athletes in the United States, particularly by allowing them to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This legislation establishes clearer regulations and protections, creating a fairer environment in collegiate athletics and addressing long-standing concerns regarding the treatment of student athletes. A key provision of the Act permits student athletes to earn money from their NIL rights without interference from their educational institutions or athletic associations.