Wayne (Ohio) five-star wide receiver Jamier Brown is not just making headlines on the football field, he’s now at the center of a legal battle that could reshape high school athletics in Ohio. The 2027 Ohio State commit and his mother, Jasmine Brown, have filed a lawsuit against the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA), arguing that the organization’s ban on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals is outdated and unlawful.
According to the lawsuit, Jamier Brown has received endorsement offers worth more than $100,000, including potential trading card partnerships and other promotional opportunities. The Browns contend that these restrictions unfairly limit students’ ability to benefit from their personal brands—something allowed in most other states.
This week, Franklin County Judge Jaiza Page granted a temporary restraining order lifting the OHSAA’s NIL restrictions for 45 days, until a December 15 hearing. During this period, high school athletes in Ohio can sign NIL deals while maintaining their athletic eligibility. Judge Page noted that the order promotes broader opportunities for student-athletes and aligns Ohio’s policies with the majority of the nation.
In a statement, Brown expressed gratitude toward his supporters and emphasized that NIL could help his family financially while also funding extra academic and athletic training. The outcome of the December hearing could permanently change Ohio’s stance on NIL—and set a powerful precedent for other states still holding out.
