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NCAA Eliminates Redshirts, Grants Universal 5-Year Eligibility
24 Jun
Summary
- NCAA Division I cabinet unanimously approved a new age-based eligibility model.
- All Division I athletes will now have five years of eligibility.
- The new rule starts ticking at 19 or upon college enrollment.
In a unanimous decision, the NCAA's Division I cabinet has approved a sweeping change to athlete eligibility rules. Effective after the 2025-26 academic season, all Division I athletes will be granted five years of eligibility.
This new age-based model eliminates the concept of redshirting entirely. The five-year eligibility clock will commence either when an athlete turns 19 or when they first enroll in college, whichever occurs first.
The NCAA's intent with this reform is to streamline the waiver process and address the increasing prevalence of players seeking extended eligibility. This rule change applies to athletes with remaining eligibility following the 2025-26 academic year, though potential legal challenges are anticipated.
