Five‑Year Playtime: College Athletes Get Extra Years

The NCAA has moved a step closer to changing how long student‑athletes can compete. A new plan would let Division I players use five years to play, instead of the usual four. The extra year would start in the first school year after a player finishes high school or turns 19, whichever comes first. This shift aims to give athletes a clearer path and keep schools on the same page. It also lets players earn the money they can now, while protecting future high‑schoolers who want those chances.

The board says the rule will not affect athletes who already finished their four years. If someone has used all their eligibility, it stays finished. For teams building rosters for next season, the change brings a calm period. It keeps transfers and new “name, image, likeness” deals from throwing schedules into chaos. The plan still keeps the guarantee that athletes can get help finishing their degree for up to ten years after they stop playing.

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