Whether it’s NIL deals or the transfer portal, today’s student-athletes have more control over their careers than ever.
Another change could reshape the college landscape once again — a new NCAA proposal that would give athletes five full seasons to compete, essentially redefining the traditional redshirt year.
Under the current system, student-athletes have five years to play four competitive seasons, with one year often reserved for development or recovery. The extra year gives programs flexibility to develop young players while maintaining roster depth.
“Redshirting gives athletes a really valuable chance to grow without the pressure of performing right away,” said Luke Retna, a junior who works in creative services and athletic operations. “Whether it’s learning a new system, getting stronger or coming back from an injury, that extra year can make a big difference. It also helps players adjust to college life, which can be a big jump from high school.”
Cody Gougler, Boise State’s deputy athletic director for external affairs, believes the change would bring both benefits and challenges. Gougler said the rule would offer more flexibility for athletes but force coaches to rethink how they manage rosters and player development.
“If the NCAA lets athletes have five full years of eligibility, it would definitely change things,” he said. “Coaches wouldn’t have to hold players back for development as often, and players could get more time on the field or court.”
The shift could benefit athletes who are ready to contribute early. Although, without a redshirt year, freshmen who need more time to adjust could face increased pressure to perform before they’re fully prepared. With transfer rates already high, programs worry the added pressure could push athletes to leave prematurely.
Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals, the transfer portal and new roster regulations have already redefined how athletes approach their careers — giving them more freedom to transfer, market themselves and make financial decisions.
David Dietrich, Boise State’s assistant director of sports communications, sees that shift as part of a bigger cultural movement.
“All these changes are totally reshaping college sports,” Dietrich said. “It feels like athletes have more control over their careers than ever before. College sports used to be about staying loyal to one school, but now it’s also about building your brand and making the most of your opportunities while you can.”
As the sense of independence grows, expectations have changed about what it means to be a college athlete. The traditional redshirt year — once a period of patience and preparation — may not fit as neatly in an era focused on exposure and immediate impact.
Still, the value of development remains. Many coaches view redshirting as more than sitting out a season;It’s viewed as a disciplined approach to mastering the game and maturing as a person.
If the NCAA moves forward with its proposal, programs like Boise State will have to rethink how they recruit, train and retain athletes in a faster-paced system with fewer pauses for growth.
