The NCAA is proposing a major shift in college athlete eligibility that could reshape recruiting and roster management for years to come.
Under the new “5-in-5” model, essentially creates an age limit. Student-athletes would have five years to complete five full seasons of competition. The clock would start at either high school graduation or their 19th birthday—whichever comes first. This replaces the current system, where athletes have four seasons within a five-year window.
One of the biggest changes is the elimination of traditional redshirt seasons and most waiver exceptions. Moving forward, exceptions would be limited to specific circumstances such as maternity leave, military service, or religious missions. This creates a more straightforward, but stricter, eligibility structure.
According to NCAA President Charlie Baker, the goal is to simplify a system that has become increasingly complex due to COVID eligibility extensions, the transfer portal, and NIL opportunities.
However, not everyone is on board. Programs in sports like baseball, basketball, and hockey have raised concerns about roster stability and long-term planning. There are also early signs that legal challenges could follow if the rule is implemented.
It’s important to note that this proposal would only apply to future student-athletes starting in the 2025–26 academic year, meaning current athletes would not be affected.
What This Means for Recruits and Families
For aspiring college athletes, this change puts a greater emphasis on early planning and development. With fewer eligibility loopholes and no traditional redshirt buffer, athletes will need to be ready to contribute sooner and manage their timeline more strategically.
As recruiting continues to evolve, understanding these rule changes is critical. The athletes and families who stay informed—and adapt early—will have a clear advantage in navigating the path to college sports.
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