NCAA enacts five-year competition clock for student-athletes

The NCAA Division I Cabinet voted unanimously on June 23, 2026, to implement a significant change to eligibility rules, establishing a five-year competition window for student-athletes. The new age-based model eliminates redshirt years and waivers, starting the competition clock when students enroll or turn 19. This change aims to address concerns about athletes extending their eligibility into their mid-20s through waivers, with legal challenges from affected players anticipated. The new rules will affect athletes with remaining eligibility after the 2025-26 academic year and will first apply to those enrolling in 2026-27.

• 10:07 PMYahoo Sports — NCAA ends redshirts, enacts 5-year window. What about transfer portal?