Adding a 5th year

[Gort]

I've heard rumors that the NCAA may consider adding a 5th yr of eligibility, which would eliminate the 'redshirt' year and allow players five years of participation. Any truth to this rumor? Any comments relative to the merits of adding an additional year of eligibility?

[walliver]

This has been talked about for a number of years. The basic idea is that since many athletes are going to be in school 5 years, why not let them play all 5 years. The argument against it is that some freshmen may benefit academically from a year without football.

Such a rule would probably benefit I-AA schools, especially those that give out less than the maximum scholarships, since scholarships wouldn't be "wasted" on players being redshirted.

[MplsBison]

But this wouldn't be for all athletes, right?

Just football?

[PapaBear]

The argument against it is that some freshmen may benefit academically from a year without football.

A redshirt year is hardly a year without football. Redshirt freshmen do everything normal players do except play in games. And even then, if they make the travel squad, they still suit up and stand on the sidelines.

There might be lots of arguments against granting a fifth year of eligibility. But "freeing up more time for academics" isn't a very good one.