NWSL drops restrictions on High Impact Player rule for all players
ESPN Soccer • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 23, 2026, 4:00 PM
Last updated Oct 23, 2026
The NWSL and the NWSL Players Association have agreed to eliminate the 'Rodman rule' restrictions, allowing all players to qualify as High Impact Players. This rule change is effective immediately and aims to provide more opportunities and flexibility for teams when selecting rosters. The High Impact Player designation previously had restrictive qualifications, but this adjustment reflects a commitment to inclusivity in the league. Further details on implementations of the new rule are expected to be released soon.
- •NWSL collaborates with the Players Association on rule change
- •All players can now qualify as High Impact Players
- •Elimination of the 'Rodman rule' enhances roster flexibility
- •Immediate effect of the rule change
- •Details on implementation forthcoming
- 4:50 PMESPN Soccer — NWSL dropping 'Rodman rule' restrictions; all players eligible
"The NWSL and NWSL Players Association have agreed to remove restrictive qualifications from the High Impact Player rule.
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