The House v. NCAA settlement in 2025 has transformed college football by introducing a $20.5 million annual cap for direct athlete pay, redefining NIL and the future of amateurism. Athletes are now receiving on-the-books compensation from their schools alongside brand deals and collective incentives, creating a new era that blurs the line between student and professional. This shift raises major questions about Title IX, compliance, and competitive balance, while giving players unprecedented financial security and leverage in choosing programs.