MIAMI GARDENS, FL - JANUARY 07: Jalen Ramsey #5 of the Miami Dolphins looks on from the field during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium on January 7, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)

The NIL has shaped the world of college football recruitment.

A program will undoubtedly attract high school prospects based on the reputation of their coaches and the valuable wisdom they impart. USC football exemplifies this, consistently producing elite players through its strong system. Jalen Ramsey himself was once a potential recruit for USC before opting for Florida State. However, with the introduction of the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rules, some prospects are now bypassing these prestigious programs in favor of larger financial opportunities.

This phenomenon does not sit well with the Dolphins’ defensive star, Jalen Ramsey. He expressed his frustration on X:

“I know the college landscape is different with NIL, but I hope these recruits keep their priorities in order. Being coached by men who have proven to be good coaches & will help your game be as successful as possible should still be the key!… I’m all for getting that 💰 but that shouldn’t be the first piece of conversation, that’s all. I hope these young guys are doing it right & have the right guidance. Much love.”

Dolphins CB Jalen Ramsey praises USC’s top coach and other notable figures.

Dec 27, 2023; San Diego, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley (right) celebrates with wide receiver Makai Lemon (24) after the Holiday Bowl against the Louisville Cardinals at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

© Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Jalen Ramsey further emphasized his point by praising some of the masterminds in college football. He gave special recognition to coaches such as Patrick Surtain, Charles Kelly, and Tim Walton, among others.

Jalen Ramsey further elaborated on his point by highlighting several key coaches in college football:

“I think of coaches like Surtain at FSU coaching the DBs. That’s a no-brainer in my opinion. Not only did he play at the highest level, but his son is a top dawg currently, he coached in the league, & now he’s doing it in college. I think of coaches like Charles Kelly at Auburn now, but he was extremely important to me & Derwin’s development at FSU. Henny [Eric Henderson] obviously has been around & directly coached the absolute best on an NFL level. Prime [Deion Sanders] of course can give valuable lessons & coaching. Tim Walton at Ohio State coached me in the league along with others who had a lot of success under his coaching & lessons. I’m sure there are a few I’m missing & a lot more really good coaches, but I’m just venting lol.”

It is worth noting that this idea came to Ramsey while talking with one of Lincoln Riley’s most prominent assistants, Coach Eric Henderson. The USC football coach even agreed with Ramsey’s declaration.

NIL might be a good way to earn during their four or more years in college. However, if their primary focus is securing a spot in the NFL, young prospects may want to heed Jalen Ramsey’s advice.