NCAA rule giving players a fifth year of eligibility may not be approved in time to help current seniors

The NCAA is considering a rule change that would grant student-athletes an additional year of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This "5-for-5" model would allow players to compete for five seasons over a six-year period. While the proposal aims to provide relief for seniors who had their final season disrupted, some prominent college coaches have expressed concerns. They argue that the rule change could significantly disrupt roster management and team-building strategies. Critics suggest that the change may not be approved in time to benefit current seniors, as the NCAA is still deliberating on the proposal. Furthermore, there are questions about how the additional scholarships required would impact team budgets and recruitment. Overall, the proposed rule change is a complex issue, with valid arguments on both sides. The NCAA must balance the needs of student-athletes with the practical implications for college sports programs.