What is the proposed 9-game redshirt rule for FBS coaches?

FBS coaches voted to allow players to play in up to nine games while still preserving a full year of eligibility.

Why are FBS coaches pushing for a 9-game redshirt rule?

Coaches aim to curb midseason opt-outs and address player eligibility and roster management concerns.

Has the NCAA approved the 9-game redshirt rule proposal yet?

No, the proposal was voted on by coaches but still needs to be enacted by the NCAA.

Home / Sports / FBS Coaches Back 9-Game Redshirt Rule

FBS Coaches Back 9-Game Redshirt Rule

14 Jan

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Summary

Coaches voted to allow players in up to nine games.
The rule change aims to curb midseason opt-outs.
The proposal is a reaction to roster management concerns.

Football Bowl Subdivision coaches have voted to endorse a significant alteration to the redshirt rule, proposing that players be allowed to compete in up to nine games per season while maintaining their eligibility. This decision, made during the annual American Football Coaches Association convention, addresses growing concerns over player eligibility and the strategic management of team rosters. The measure now awaits formal approval from the NCAA to be enacted.

This proposed rule change is seen as a direct response to the rise in midseason opt-outs, a trend amplified by factors such as Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) incentives, revenue sharing models, and the dynamic nature of the transfer portal. Coaches expressed a desire for greater flexibility, seeking to reduce player attrition and provide more consistent participation opportunities throughout the season.

The vote occurred as the transfer portal nears the end of its single period, with coaches anticipating the 2026 season. While some coaches advocated for even broader changes, such as five full seasons of play within a five-year window, the current proposal aims to strike a balance, potentially mitigating future legal challenges related to player eligibility and transfer rights.