As to the VFL thing, I just don't see how anyone can apply that label to a kid you paid to come to your school. I know kids have been "paid" under the table forever and the idea that they've all chosen UT because of their "love for the orange" is naive and a fantasy, but this new era of the portal and NIL has brought things into the clear light of day. Now it's about clicks, social media, and "the bag". I have no problem with kids getting what they can from the system as it stands. If they win a bowl, league title or a natty, give 'em praise. Give 'em a ring. Heck, give 'em a bonus if you like. But they don't get VFL or their jerseys retired if it were up to me. I guess the argument can rightfully be made that kids like Nico are getting paid to sign right out of HS so does that eliminate him from consideration? If he remains at UT until he's draft eligible and he meets the criteria, then yes, he should receive those honors. Yeah, I know that sounds hypocritical, but I do see that situation as being more palatable than a one year mercenary. Unless we want to completely close the book on "VFL" and "retired jersey", there has to be some compromise/adjustment to the criteria/thought processes. It's just that one year thing that I can't get past. Oh to be a kid again and see sports and our heroes through a childs eyes again.