One of the major debates and potential rule changes on the docket in college sports this summer revolves around increasing player eligibility.

As it currently stands, student-athletes have four seasons at their disposal, with certain provisions for injuries, redshirt seasons, and effects of COVID-19, to name a few. Yet, the NCAA is considering expanding the allotted eligibility to five years.

NEWS: NCAA President Charlie Baker told ESPN today that he’s “pretty optimistic” that the new aged-based eligibility proposal will happen. The DI Board of Directors met today and will recommend to not implement this rule retroactively for graduates/exhausted eligibility. “If… pic.twitter.com/wZJVl5aV9I

— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) April 27, 2026

It would not apply to players who have already graduated, but current players could invoke the new eligibility guidelines.…