How much is too much for a high school OT? CFB sources sound off on Jackson Cantwell’s massive Miami NIL deal

How much is too much to pay for a high school offensive lineman? That’s a question buzzing throughout college football this week on the heels of five-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell committing to Miami.

The deal, which 247Sports previously reported could approach $2 million a year, allowed the Hurricanes to overtake Georgia for the No. 10 overall prospect in the Top247 and No. 1 player for the industry-generated 247Sports Composite.

It’s a splashy move that seems in line with Miami’s general strategy during the NIL era, which has seen the Hurricanes basically do whatever it takes to land top targets, including Cam Ward‘s $2 million salary and Carson Beck‘s $4 million.

“If you can pay it, do it,” said one SEC director of player personnel. “Go get that guy.”

But college football will soon no longer be in the unlimited NIL era of the sport. Once the House settlement is approved — a decision that could come anytime over the next few days — all future NIL deals more than $600 will be subject to approval from a clearinghouse that will determine whether they meet the standard of fair market value. Schools, at least on paper, will be far more limited in their spending with revenue sharing (expected to be $14 to $16 million for most Power Four football programs) making up the majority of a pseudo salary cap.

That’s the context in which many are looking at Cantwell’s massive price tag and wondering how an unproven high school tackle could be worth it.