Why College Athletes Deserve One More Year of Eligibility

For decades, four years of college eligibility has been the standard in college athletics. But as the landscape of college sports continues to evolve with NIL, the transfer portal, and changing academic paths, it's time to reconsider that standard. Giving every student-athlete a fifth year of eligibility would benefit athletes, schools, and fans alike.

CBS Sports

Many college athletes don't follow a traditional four-year path anymore. Some change majors, pursue graduate degrees, or lose development time because of injuries. A fifth year would allow athletes to finish their education without feeling pressured to choose between academics and athletics.

From a fan perspective, keeping experienced players in college longer creates a better product. Veteran athletes build stronger connections with their schools and communities, making rivalries and team identities more meaningful. Instead of watching stars leave after a few seasons, fans would have another year to follow players they've grown to support.

Critics argue that a universal fifth year could reduce opportunities for incoming freshmen by keeping roster spots occupied. That's a legitimate concern, but roster management has already become more flexible through the transfer portal and scholarship adjustments. The NCAA and conferences could address roster limits while still allowing athletes an additional season.

College sports are no longer the same as they were twenty years ago. Athletes are balancing academics, NIL responsibilities, transfers, and increasingly demanding schedules. A fifth year of eligibility would recognize those changes while giving student-athletes more time to develop both on and off the field.

If college athletics is truly committed to supporting student-athletes, then extra year should be a given.