NCAA panel approves new eligibility model giving Division I athletes 5 years to play 5 seasons

Key Points:

• The NCAA approved a new eligibility model for Division I athletes allowing five seasons of competition within five years, starting at full-time enrollment or the academic year after their 19th birthday, replacing the previous five years to play four seasons rule.
• This change aims to simplify eligibility rules, reduce litigation, and eliminate most waivers or redshirt extensions except for specific circumstances like religious missions, maternity, or military service.
• The rule will take effect in fall 2027-28 for new enrollees, with current athletes able to choose between the new and old models until the 2025-26 academic year; waiver requests must be submitted by July 31.
• Legal experts predict the new rule will reduce eligibility disputes but may not stop lawsuits entirely, especially those based on antitrust claims or ongoing challenges like the junior college eligibility case.
• Some athletes and advocates express concern about fairness for players affected by COVID-related eligibility extensions and emphasize the importance of maintaining hardship waiver opportunities.