I recently wrote that the NCAA’s new eligibility rules will deter lawsuits brought by students who wish to remain college athletes after they’ve exhausted their NCAA eligibility.
I stand by that claim, but it’s clear the era of deterrence hasn’t yet arrived.
Last month the NCAA Division I Cabinet unanimously approved a system that provides five years of eligibility beginning at the start of the academic year following an athlete’s 19th birthday or upon full-time enrollment in college, whichever comes sooner. This move reflects a significant change from a system that generally provided for four seasons of play within a five-year period.
A fifth year of play extends the time college athletes can pursue NIL and revenue-share opportunities, as well as furthering their education as full-time students. Considering that less than 2% of college athletes will become professional athletes, the chance for another year could provide some a significant amount of money. It also offers them the opportunity to further hone their skills in hopes of attracting pro teams’ interest. Schools benefit, too, by being able to play more seasoned and physically developed athletes.
In addition, the new system eliminates a waiver process, while preserving exceptions for pregnancy, active-duty military service and official religious missions. The previous system featured opportunities to apply for hardship waivers, which led to difficult judgment calls for the NCAA and accusations of inconsistent treatment.
