The College Sports Commission has wrapped up its first publicly known investigation-and LSU can breathe a little easier.
In a statement released Monday, LSU confirmed that the CSC’s inquiry into potential non-reporting of NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) compensation has officially concluded, with no disciplinary action taken. The investigation, which quietly began on January 15, was not related to the football program, according to a source familiar with the matter.
“The CSC inquiry into non-reporting has been resolved with no disciplinary action, and any deals that require submission to NIL Go have been submitted,” said Zach Greenwell, LSU’s deputy athletic director for external affairs. “We appreciate the CSC’s prompt review and resolution.”
This marks a significant moment in the evolving landscape of college sports. The CSC, a relatively new enforcement body formed by the Power 4 conferences, was created to oversee how schools and third parties navigate the complex world of player compensation. That includes both direct payments from schools-now allowed under the $2.8 billion House lawsuit settlement-and NIL deals between athletes and outside entities.
While the specifics of LSU’s case weren’t disclosed, it’s the first time we’ve seen the CSC publicly linked to an active investigation. The probe became public knowledge late last week following a public-records request.
Prior to that, the only known details came from a letter sent by CSC’s head of investigations, Katie B. Medearis, to LSU athletic director Verge Ausberry.
The letter indicated that the Commission was looking into a potential failure to report one or more NIL agreements.
The CSC’s role is still taking shape, but it’s quickly becoming clear that they’re not just a passive overseer. They’re actively verifying NIL deals, monitoring compliance, and stepping in when reporting requirements aren’t met. And while this particular case ended without penalties, it sends a message: the CSC is watching.
This comes at a time when the entire college sports ecosystem is adjusting to a new normal. The NCAA’s traditional authority has been questioned in recent months, particularly around enforcement, and the CSC’s emergence adds another layer of oversight. With high-profile coaches and athletic departments voicing concerns about tampering and improper deals, the CSC has already notified other programs of ongoing investigations into unreported NIL activity.
So while LSU walks away from this one clean, the broader takeaway is clear: NIL oversight is no longer theoretical. It’s here, it’s active, and schools across the country are now on notice.