The short answer
NFL agents can take at most 3% of a player's contract under NFLPA rules, and many take less. NBA agents are capped at 4% (2% on minimum-salary deals). MLB and NHL agents usually take 4% to 5%. Marketing agents on endorsements often take 10% to 20%, and NIL agents are mostly unregulated. The fee comes off the gross, before taxes.
Numbers from the KeepMyCheck calculator using 2026 tax rules. Estimates, not tax advice.
| NFL (3% cap) | $300,000 |
| NBA (4% cap) | $400,000 |
| MLB / NHL (about 5%) | $500,000 |
| Endorsement deal at 15% | $1,500,000 per $10M |
Because the fee is taken from the gross and is not deductible on a W-2 player's federal return, a 3% fee costs more than 3% of what you actually keep. Veterans sometimes use flat-fee lawyers instead.
Related questions
- What percentage do NFL agents get?
- Up to 3% of the playing contract under NFLPA rules. Many agents charge less, especially on big contracts.
- How much do NBA agents make?
- Up to 4% of the contract (2% on minimum-salary seasons) under NBPA rules.