Kiffin says LSU has 'evolved' in revenue-sharing era as NIL raises stakes for players

Lane Kiffin opened his debut LSU preseason with a candid assessment of how the revenue-sharing era is reshaping player motivation, telling reporters Monday that the program has adapted its messaging to reflect a landscape where athletes stand to earn — or lose — significant money based on performance.

Kiffin, beginning his first season in Baton Rouge, is navigating the second year of revenue sharing in college football. When asked at his Monday press conference whether NIL has changed how players approach the game, he said the dynamic cuts both ways — introducing new challenges while also sharpening competitive drive.

We've evolved in that, in how we talk. They make a lot of money, a lot of them now. So, to me, there's a little bit of a difference in there. If you get what part of your motivation was, are you still motivated? We work through that in the way that we talk to them, the things that we point to. But also, I think, in a way, people talk about all the problems with them making money — which there are problems that come with that — there's also a good side, too, because I think they feel more like it's a big job vs. 'Oh, I just have a scholarship. I kind of show up and do football part-time.' I think they do take it more serious that way and realize, 'Hey, if I don't play well, I'm probably not going to make that next year. And if I play well, I'm going to make more vs. I just have the same scholarship.' Kind of just how a lot of humans work, if you think about it.

— Lane Kiffin, LSU head coach

LSU is projected to carry one of the highest roster costs in college football this season, with expenditures reported to be upward of $40 million in 2026. That financial commitment underscores why on-field performance now carries direct economic consequences for the players on the roster.

Leavitt Healthy, Kiffin Era Set to Open Against Clemson

The program's marquee offseason acquisition, quarterback Sam Leavitt, arrived from Arizona State as the top-ranked player in the On3 Industry Transfer Rankings. Leavitt, who underwent foot surgery, told reporters earlier this month that he is fully recovered and has been for several months. 'My health is one thing that I take very seriously, whether it's the food I eat, the way I sleep, the way I recover,' Leavitt said. 'I'm ready to go.'

Kiffin's first game as LSU head coach is scheduled for Week 1 against Clemson in Baton Rouge, with a 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff on ESPN and College GameDay on site for the primetime matchup.