NCAA explores age-based eligibility plan amid redshirt debate
NCAA leaders are debating an age-based eligibility rule that could end redshirts and reshape how programs manage rosters and careers.
The NCAA is exploring a fundamental shift in how it handles athletic eligibility , and it could ultimately lead to the end of the redshirt era. Pete Thamel of ESPN is reporting that NCAA Division I leaders are held preliminary discussions this week on an age-based eligibility model that would grant athletes five years to compete, beginning either when they graduate high school or the day they turn 19-years old, whichever comes first. The approach would eliminate the traditional redshirt system and create a uniform eligibility calendar across all sports.
NCAA president Charlie Baker was scheduled to join Wednesday's Division I cabinet call to discuss the concept. No vote was taken, as expected, but the conversation represents fresh ideas being thrown around and it is a key step in a formal proposal later in the spring. Pete reports the next meeting will take place on May 22 to discuss the topic further.
For Notre Dame , and other high-profile programs, the change could streamline roster timelines and reduce strategic redshirt decisions. This would also tighten eligibility windows for late bloomers and graduate transfers. UPDATE: The NCAA DI Cabinet will hold a further discussion on age-based eligibility later today.
This idea would essentially eliminate redshirts and give college athletes five years of eligibility starting when you graduate high school or when you turn 19. Whichever is earlier. pic.