Overview
- The Division I Board of Directors, which acted Monday, directed the Division I Cabinet to advance an age-based plan that starts each athlete’s five-year window the academic year after turning 19 or graduating high school.
- The change is not expected to be retroactive for athletes whose eligibility ends by spring 2026, a stance NCAA president Charlie Baker backed as some current players voiced fairness concerns and legal challenges are anticipated.
- The model would allow five seasons in five years, eliminate traditional redshirts and most medical waivers, and keep only narrow exceptions for military service, pregnancy and religious missions.
- The proposal preserves Division I core guarantees, including funding for athletes to finish degrees for up to 10 years after eligibility expires.
- The Cabinet meets May 22 and could vote on the plan, with possible rollout in 2026–27, while coaches warn of near-term roster strain and women’s pro leagues such as the PWHL could face thinner draft pools if seniors stay in college for a fifth season.