As the NCAA navigates the complexities of the transfer portal era, a significant shift in eligibility rules has been approved to streamline processes and reduce legal disputes. Starting this fall, Division I athletes will benefit from a new eligibility model allowing participation in five seasons over a five-year span, beginning with full-time enrollment or the academic year after their 19th birthday, whichever comes first.
The decision, unanimously sanctioned by the Division I Cabinet, marks a departure from the traditional rule where athletes had five years to complete four seasons of play, with their eligibility clock commencing at enrollment. This update aims to minimize the need for waivers or redshirt years, except in cases such as religious missions, maternity leave, or military service, thereby excluding injury-related extensions.
“While previous NCAA rules have served college sports well for a long time, we heard also loud and clear from NCAA members and student-athletes that eligibility rules should be easier to understand,” commented NCAA President Charlie Baker. The age-based model is expected to simplify rule administration and provide coaches with more predictable roster management.
Attorney Tom Mars, who recently represented a successful eligibility case, praised the new rule, stating, “There’s no way somebody could file an eligibility case based on a medical waiver now with the new rule. Can’t be done. You can file it, I guess, but it will be immediately dismissed.”
Set to take effect this fall, the updated rules will impact over 350 schools and 200,000 athletes, most notably in the high-revenue sports of football and basketball. The new five-in-five eligibility framework also appears in Senate legislation aimed at addressing broader college sports issues, amidst ongoing litigation from athletes seeking extended careers and revenue opportunities.
Among such cases, Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia is leading a lawsuit challenging NCAA rules on junior college seasons counting against Division I eligibility. The trial is scheduled for February. Sam Ehrlich, an expert tracking NCAA litigation, noted, “I wouldn’t say that the rule change itself will slow lawsuits down,” highlighting potential continued court cases based on antitrust arguments.
The new eligibility model will be applicable to athletes enrolling in 2027-28, while those currently enrolled or starting this fall can choose between the new and previous systems. For some freshmen hockey players, the traditional model may still be beneficial due to age considerations in the sport.
Schools seeking hardship waivers under current rules must submit applications by July 31. Beyond this date, such waivers will not be available. Attorney Ryan Downton, involved in a recent NCAA case, expressed satisfaction with the five-season allowance but anticipates further legal action from athletes affected by previous COVID waivers.
Ramogi Huma, the National College Players Association’s executive director, expressed conditional support for the rule, emphasizing the importance of hardship waiver opportunities for athletes.
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