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College football entered a new era in July 2021 when athletes were allowed to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL). Before that, any payments to players were controversial, and allegations tied to former stars like David Pollack could quickly damage reputations.
Former Georgia linebacker David Pollack recently found himself responding to one of those claims. A social media user accused David Pollack of receiving money from UGA’s secretive Gridiron Society. Pollack fired back with sarcasm, then clarified, “They never paid me, btw,” according to his post on X.
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David Pollack starred at Georgia from 2001 to 2004, finishing his career with 36 sacks—a school record, according to Georgia athletics records. The 6’2″, 265-pound linebacker earned the Chuck Bednarik Award, Lombardi Award, and Lott Trophy before being drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft, cementing David Pollack’s place in Georgia history.
The Gridiron Secret Society, founded in 1908, is a long-standing University of Georgia organization known for its exclusive networking among male students. Past members reportedly include former President Jimmy Carter and legendary coach Vince Dooley, according to university history and public reports. While rumors of pay-for-play exist, no verified evidence has surfaced.
David Pollack has been skeptical of NIL since its inception. If David Pollack had played in the current era, he likely could have commanded a seven-figure deal. But scandals like those involving Reggie Bush show how prior “illegal” payments could derail careers. The NCAA found Bush accepted improper benefits, leading USC to vacate its 2004 national title and Bush to return his Heisman Trophy in 2010 (NCAA records).
Even today, David Pollack isn’t shy about criticizing high-dollar NIL deals. He called Miami’s reported $2 million offer to 2026 top O-line recruit Jackson Cantwell excessive and proposed a cap on NIL payments for fairness, according to his public commentary.
Meanwhile, Georgia itself is in a legal fight over NIL money. Former UGA pass rusher Damon Wilson II transferred to Missouri in 2025 after signing a 14-month NIL deal. He received $30,000 of a $420,000 contract before leaving, and Georgia is now demanding the remaining funds, according to statements from the university.
UGA spokesperson Steve Drummond said the school expects athletes to honor signed agreements. Wilson countersued, claiming Georgia is attempting to punish him for entering the transfer portal and “weaponizing” a damages clause that may not be enforceable, according to court filings.
Wilson played the full 2025 season at Missouri, recording 23 tackles, before transferring to Miami for his final year. Reports indicate he landed an NIL deal worth more than $2 million with the Hurricanes.
These contrasting stories—David Pollack defending himself against historic allegations and Georgia battling a former player over NIL payments—highlight the changing landscape of college football. What was once forbidden is now a central and sometimes controversial part of the sport’s business.
FAQ:
Who is David Pollack?
David Pollack is a former Georgia linebacker who played from 2001 to 2004. He holds the school record with 36 career sacks and won major awards like the Chuck Bednarik Award, Lombardi Award, and Lott Trophy before becoming a first-round NFL Draft pick.
Why was David Pollack accused of getting paid at Georgia?
A social media user claimed Pollack received money through the Gridiron Secret Society before the NIL era. Pollack denied the allegation and said he was never paid during his time at Georgia.
What is the Gridiron Secret Society at UGA?
The Gridiron Secret Society is a long-standing organization at the University of Georgia, founded in 1908. It is known for networking among influential students and alumni, but there is no verified evidence linking it to pay-for-play schemes.
What is David Pollack’s stance on NIL?
David Pollack has been critical of large NIL deals. He has suggested there should be limits or regulations to prevent excessive payments and keep college football competitive.
What is the Georgia NIL lawsuit involving Damon Wilson II?
Georgia is seeking money from former player Damon Wilson II after he transferred schools. The school claims he breached a 14-month NIL deal after receiving part of the payment.
How much NIL money was Damon Wilson supposed to receive?
Wilson signed a deal worth about $420,000. He received $30,000 before transferring, and Georgia is now seeking the remaining amount through legal action.
What is Wilson’s response to Georgia’s lawsuit?
Wilson filed a countersuit, claiming Georgia is trying to punish him for entering the transfer portal. He also argues that the damages clause in the deal may not be enforceable.
Where is Damon Wilson playing now?
After playing the 2025 season at Missouri, Wilson transferred to Miami for his final year. Reports say he secured an NIL deal worth more than $2 million with the Hurricanes.
How has NIL changed college football?
Since July 2021, players can legally earn money from endorsements and sponsorships. This has led to multi-million-dollar deals and new legal challenges between schools, collectives, and athletes.
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David Pollack Denies Pay-for-Play Claims as Georgia Faces NIL Lawsuit