In a groundbreaking development, former Michigan athletes, including Denard Robinson and Braylon Edwards, have filed a class-action lawsuit against the NCAA and Big Ten Network, claiming they deserve compensation for the use of their name, image, and likeness. The lawsuit, which represents those who played for Michigan prior to 2016, alleges that these organizations have systematically exploited their iconic moments during their careers at the university, generating substantial revenue through various media platforms.

According to the ESPN report by Jake Trotter, the plaintiffs are seeking more than $50 million in damages from the NCAA and Big Ten Network. The lawsuit highlights that these historic moments, often replayed across different media outlets, captivate audiences and contribute significantly to revenue generated from advertisements, licensing deals, and merchandise sales.

This legal action sheds light on the long-standing issue of the NCAA's control over student-athlete image rights, which continued even after they had graduated or left college. However, the tide began to turn in 2009 when former UCLA basketball star Ed O'Bannon initiated a lawsuit against the NCAA. O'Bannon, who was the Most Outstanding Player in the 1995 men's basketball tournament, discovered that his likeness was being utilized in an EA Sports video game without any compensation.

With this class-action lawsuit, the former Michigan athletes are aiming to rectify the inequities they have faced regarding the commercial use of their names, images, and likeness. They assert that the revenue generated from their athletic achievements should have rightfully been shared with them, considering the significant role they played in creating these iconic moments.

As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen how the NCAA and Big Ten Network will respond to these allegations. This lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for college athletes across the country, potentially leading to significant changes in the way their name, image, and likeness rights are handled.

It is clear that former college athletes are no longer willing to accept the status quo, and they are now taking a stand against what they perceive as exploitation of their achievements. This legal action has the potential to pave the way for a more equitable future for student-athletes, ensuring that they receive their fair share of compensation for the valuable moments they create during their collegiate careers.