NCAA Nears Decision on Five-Year Competition Model for Student-Athletes

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The NCAA is making progress toward implementing a five-year competition model for student-athletes at the Division II level. A proposal advocating five years of competition over a five-year period was submitted last month and is set to be discussed at the 2026 NCAA Convention.

During a recent SEC Zoom call, Arkansas coach Sam Pittman expressed his support for the initiative. “I’m hoping that they pass the five for five,” he said about potential redshirt rules. Pittman’s Razorbacks, currently with a 2-2 record, are scheduled to play against No. 22-ranked Notre Dame this Saturday at noon ET on ABC. “We certainly need it with the limited roster size and injuries. We need it.”

Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire also articulated his views on the five-for-five concept, emphasizing the necessity for change in the current system. Sources report that the NCAA may address the proposal next month, considering it for the Football Bowls Subdivision, the highest level of college football.

The NCAA and related committees are expected to conduct an eligibility review by the end of next month. If there is a positive progression, a formal proposal could be put forward by the end of the year, with a vote planned during the January convention in National Harbor, Maryland.

Meanwhile, the NCAA is reevaluating the proposed changes to the NCAA Transfer Portal Window, which is currently set from January 2-12, 2026, for football student-athletes. Some athletes have expressed dissatisfaction, seeking a longer window for transfer decisions. “Athletes want longer than 10 days; anything longer than 10,” a source indicated.

Pittman noted that roster size issues and injuries will continue to be pressing concerns. This season, walk-on players were allowed to remain as part of the House Settlement, but roster reductions are expected to follow shortly.

Illinois head coach Bret Bielema predicts the five-for-five measure will be in place before the 2026 season starts. He mentioned the full support from conferences like the Big Ten and Big 12, as well as indications of backing from SEC coaches.

Power Conference general managers have voiced similar sentiments. One noted, “Completely in favor and needs to happen,” reinforcing the urgency for change regarding redshirt rules.

However, there are underlying worries about athletes potentially holding out or transferring if changes do not meet their expectations. A college football executive recently questioned the implications of recent coaching dismissals, emphasizing the uncertain futures of entire teams.