College Football's New Normal Takes Shape
· curiosity
The Redshirt Revival: College Football’s New Normal
The NCAA’s decision to extend player eligibility to five years has sent shockwaves through college football, particularly in quarterback rooms at top programs. As schools adjust to this change, it’s clear that taking advantage of an extra year will be a critical decision for many seniors.
Utah’s Devon Dampier is one such player who wants out of college football as soon as possible and into the NFL. In contrast, Kansas State’s Avery Johnson is focused on the current season. “I’m just trying to stay in the moment,” Johnson said in an interview with ESPN. His coach, Collin Klein, shares this sentiment, relieved that he no longer has to worry about managing Johnson’s eligibility.
The new model eliminates redshirts and eligibility waivers, simplifying a complex process that has become increasingly contentious in the NIL era. As Dampier noted, “It just kind of eliminates all the drama around eligibility.” This shift is welcome news for coaches like Klein, who have had to navigate intricate rules surrounding player eligibility.
The five-year model represents a significant change in how teams approach player development. Coaches can now focus on building depth without worrying about burning out their best players. As Klein put it, “It’s about prioritizing the well-being of our players and giving them the best chance to succeed.” This shift reflects a broader trend in college football, where player welfare is increasingly taking center stage.
For players who choose to take advantage of an extra year, it means opportunities to earn graduate degrees or pursue other post-grad options. However, for others like Dampier, it’s a straightforward decision – get drafted and start earning a real income as soon as possible.
As coaches adapt to this new landscape, the decision to take an extra year will be intensely personal. For some, it’ll be about securing their financial future; for others, it’ll be about getting another shot at glory on the field. As Klein noted, “It’s a good problem to have, but it’s also a reminder that the game is evolving.” The NCAA’s move to a five-year eligibility model is just one chapter in college football’s ongoing evolution – and it will never be the same again.
Reader Views
- ILIris L. · curator
The NCAA's five-year eligibility rule will undoubtedly simplify college football's convoluted landscape, but its impact on team dynamics and player development is far from straightforward. While coaches like Collin Klein welcome the relief of managing less complex logistics, others might worry about the potential for burnout in younger players who'll have more time to hone their skills. A more pressing concern, however, is how this shift will affect programs with already-thin depth charts – will they prioritize short-term wins or long-term player well-being?
- TAThe Archive Desk · editorial
The NCAA's new five-year eligibility model is more than just a rule change - it's a chance for programs to rethink their development priorities. One aspect that may get lost in the shuffle is how this shift will impact teams with high-powered quarterbacks. The influx of veteran signal-callers could lead to overcrowding at QB, forcing coaches to make tough decisions about who gets playing time. Will we see more of the "senior starter" model or a new emphasis on quarterback rotations?
- HVHenry V. · history buff
The new five-year model is a breath of fresh air for coaches, but let's not forget that this shift also raises questions about player burnout beyond just eligibility. What happens to those who don't see their name called by the fifth year? Will they be stuck on a roster with no clear path forward, feeling like their time in college has been protracted unnecessarily? The NCAA would do well to consider providing some guidance on what support and next steps should be available for players who choose not to pursue an extra year.