The athletes said a players' association will help their voices be better heard as the NCAA and its schools move toward a system to share revenue with players.

Three athletes involved in the $2.8 billion NCAA antitrust settlement are advocating for major changes, including the creation of an independent players' association.

The athletes whose lawsuit against the NCAA is primed to pave the way for schools to pay them directly also want a players' association to represent them in the complex contract negotiations that have overtaken the sport.