NCAA president Baker advocates for federal legislation to control player eligibility

NCAA president Charlie Baker is calling for the passage of the Protect College Sports Act to address ongoing legal challenges regarding student-athlete eligibility. Recent court rulings have permitted professional NFL and NBA players to return to collegiate rosters, prompting concerns over competitive balance and opportunities for current students. Baker noted that over 165 lawsuits have been filed since the start of 2025 seeking to challenge existing roster and eligibility limits. He argued that the influx of former professionals displaces incoming freshmen and reduces development time for other athletes. The proposed legislation aims to establish uniform eligibility standards and codify protections for scholarships, healthcare, and revenue-sharing. The NCAA seeks this federal action to stabilize college athletics as the new school year commences.

• 3:39 PMYahoo Sports — Charlie Baker: When NFL, NBA players return to campus, everyone else pays the price