do redshirt players travel with the team

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• July 22, 2020
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The Ultimate Guide For Redshirt Athletes: Pros, Cons, Do’s, and Don’ts

  what is redshirting why would i be redshirted.

Every NCAA Athlete is given ten semesters to graduate, and four seasons to play the sport they want at the school of their choice. 

The moment you play in an organized competition with your team,  the NCAA will view you as an active member on your team’s roster, and the season you’ve competed in will count towards your four seasons of college play.

It doesn’t matter if you competed for a second, a minute, or an hour.

This includes preseason, regular season, and postseason competitions (not off-season scrimmages or in-house showcases against your own team). 

One way to preserve a season of play with the NCAA is to avoid competition altogether and have your coaches assign you a “redshirt” year. 

There are many reasons why your coach would give you a redshirt season, but some common reasons are listed below:

• You are a freshman and need more time to develop strength and skill as an athlete before playing in competition. 
• You were recently injured and are not expected to fully heal before the season arrives. Your coaches would prefer that you take a season off and come back stronger the year after. 
• You are ill.
• You have a family emergency.
• You need maternity or paternity leave.

Although the term “redshirt” is not an official NCAA term, it’s a commonly used word in college athletics. Many athletes are redshirted at some point in their athletic careers.

The right and wrong way to look at redshirting.

Whether you just got redshirted, are thinking about redshirting, or are expecting to redshirt in the future; you need to consider all sides of the situation. 

I wasn’t exactly happy when I found out that I would be redshirted for developmental purposes as a freshman at UNC Chapel Hill.

I felt like I was ready to contribute on game day, and was really looking forward to traveling and having the full student-athlete experience. 

In truth, I was far behind my teammates from a skills standpoint, and coming from a southern state with embarrassing academic standards, I wasn’t ready to balance academia with a full-blown travel schedule. 

In the end, redshirting my freshman year was a huge blessing that took off some pressure and allowed me to slowly catch up to the rest of my teammates.

When I started my redshirt journey, I allowed the term “redshirt” to define me. Some words I’d hear in my mind were, “Unprepared. Unworthy. Bad. Less than. A joke. Never going to play.” The lies I told myself were so far from the truth; but I allowed them to define how I practiced, trained, and communicated with my team during that year. 

As you might have guessed, this is the wrong way to look at redshirting. 

Just avoid going down that rabbit hole. It’s not good for you physically or mentally. 

Here’s the truth: If your coaches decide to redshirt you for a season, it is because they see promise in you. In some cases, they will even pay an entire extra semester or year’s worth of tuition just to keep you on their team for one extra season. Trust me, they aren’t keeping you around longer because they hate you and don’t want to see you do well. These people are investing extra time and extra money in YOU. It is a good thing.

This is the correct way to think about your redshirt status. It is a symbol of promise, growth, and support. 

Your coaches are using their power to protect you a little longer when they give you a redshirt year. 

This is a good thing. It is that simple.

The Pros and Cons of being a Redshirt Athlete.

While there are many benefits to Redshirting and it should generally be considered as a good and healthy thing; it doesn’t come without some challenges. 

You deserve to know exactly what to expect as a redshirt NCAA athlete, so I am going to share the good and the bad with you below. 

CON #1: In most cases, you won’t be able to travel with your team during regular season games. 

Believe it or not, budgets exist and your team probably has one. While some revenue-generating teams can afford to take every single athlete on their roster to away games, most teams can’t. 

Think about it. Flights, buses, hotels, meals, per diem, etc. These expenses add up! A school can easily spend up to $2,000 to take ONE athlete to ONE in-conference away-game. 

Lets role-play for a second:

You are an NCAA coach for a non revenue-generating team and you want to save some money so your team can have a nicer end-of-the-year banquet, better team-bonding trips, etc.

Now, answer me this: 

Would you spend tens of thousands of dollars to send players, who are guaranteed NOT to play, all over the country to watch your team compete? 

The answer is no. If you are smart, you’d leave the redshirts at home and save some money.

CON #2: You might not get the same gear that your active teammates will receive.

This ties back to traveling. If your teammates are receiving travel luggage, special winter jackets for a game that’s in rural Minnesota, etc – you may not get the same stuff if you aren’t traveling. 

Yes, it’s a bummer, but again, you won’t need these things if you aren’t going to be traveling with the team. 

It’s okay to be a little bit salty (I was). But I suggest getting over it sooner rather than later. You’ll get your gear next year, it will be updated by whatever sport apparel brand your college or university has a deal with, and it’ll be better quality than what your teammates got this season.

So really, you win.

CON #3: Your family, friends, significant others, and peers will come to your games and you will not be playing, at all. 

My family came to maybe two of my home games when I was a redshirt. I was totally fine with that because, 

• A) I definitely wasn’t going to play, and
• B) I didn’t like being on the bench and it showed. Not a good look.

Here’s the thing: Redshirting and sitting on the bench for an entire season is going to take a shot at your ego. You’re going to want to play. You’re going to feel a little envious of the athletes playing on game day.

It can be a humbling experience.

But eventually, you’ll have to come to peace with the fact that you will not be playing as a redshirt. 

I recommend doing this sooner rather than later; otherwise you risk being bummed out all season. 

Remember that you are an investment for your team and have a promising future.

CON #4: You will be expected to complete extra workouts and training sessions.

Just because your team is traveling Thursday – Sunday doesn’t mean you get to Netflix and Chill all weekend.

You’ve got an entire semester to get ahead of the pack with your fitness and strength. If your coaches know what’s good for you, you will be putting in extra work.  

Expect to wake up early on Friday morning and head to the weight room. That’s how I began every weekend of my redshirt year. 

You get used to it. 

PRO #1: Extra Time To Acclimate.

Time is the most valuable currency in college athletics. 

It’s common to hear coaches and athletes say things like, “If only Ashley had one more year with us.”, or,  “If only we had an extra inning to play.”

When you are redshirting, time is on your side. You get an entire extra year to learn the ins and outs of being a student athlete, but without the added pressure of playing. 

Take advantage of that.

PRO #2: Free time on the weekends.

When you’re done with your bonus workout and Friday classes, you’re essentially free to do what you want. 

Now, what you do with that time is up to you; and I highly recommend you use it wisely. 

Either way, time is valuable and having the extra hours to catch up on school work, hang with friends, and enjoy campus life is a huge benefit of being a redshirt.

PRO #3: You get an extra semester in college.

This is, by far, the most significant benefit of being a redshirt athlete. 

Having an extra semester to develop as an athlete, prepare for the pros, start a Master’s program, and plan for life after sport is a straight up LUXURY.

We will discuss how you should be planning for your fifth year later in this article. 

PRO #4: You may get an extra PAID semester in college. 

Piggy-backing off of Pro #2, Redshirt athletes on scholarship are the biggest winners of all college students – IF they are wise. 

The fact that you could potentially have both your undergraduate AND postgraduate degrees paid for by your school’s athletic department is BEYOND IDEAL. 

Most students leave college with $80k worth of debt and student loans.

Just let that soak in.

When you’re done, start planning for your fifth year. 

The Dos and Don’ts of being a Redshirt Athlete.

Now that you know exactly what to expect in your redshirt year, I’d like to share some very practical advice with you to keep you on track. 

You’ll be wanting to take advantage of all of that extra free time on your hands, and not using it to build a case against you so that your coaches won’t want to play you next season. 

With that said, these are the Do’s and Don’ts of Redshirting. I really wish someone had written this out for me when I was a young one. 

Do #1: Engage In Campus Life

Your redshirt year is the ONLY year you will ever get to fully experience your school’s campus in the fall, spring, or winter (depending on when your sport is in season). 

Next season, when you are playing and traveling with your team, you won’t be able to go out and about during this time of year with the same freedom you have now. 

Take advantage of it. Go to games. Create bonds with athletes who have different seasons than you. Join a club. Take a weekend trip. 

Remember, you only live once – so make sure you are engaging as best as you can during this time. 

Do #2: Plan Your Fifth Year

As I mentioned above, you can potentially have an extra semester or year of college paid in full for you. 

Chat with an academic advisor and see what your options are. If you are on scholarship, I HIGHLY recommend trying to graduate in the normal four years and using your fifth year to begin a master’s program. 

Even if you aren’t on scholarship, athletic departments can have some pull in getting you admitted into a program. I’ve known athletes who started a grad program in their fifth year, left to go pro in their sport, and then came back later to complete their education. 

Do what’s best for you, but I’m telling you – you’re going to want to consider the extra education benefits that can come out of this redshirt deal. 

Do #3: Train Hard.

Now is not the time to slack off. As a redshirt athlete, you are behind the rest of the pack. You should be training with the intention to kick some a** – not to simply catch up. 

Talk to your strength trainer and set realistic goals for yourself this season. Challenge yourself to see how strong you can get. You’ll want to be a well-oiled machine when it’s time to compete.

Take practice seriously. You may not be on the number one practice team yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t sweep in and surprise everyone later on. 

Work your absolute hardest and know that you are just as worthy and capable as anyone else on your team. 

Do #4: Stay in contact with your coaches and teammates while they’re on the road.

FaceTime your team and ask them for text updates about the games, travel, and what’s going on on the road. 

It’s important to show both your teammates and coaches that you care about their wellbeing, even when they’re gone. 

It can also help you feel better connected to the rest of your team when they return from their trip. Redshirting can feel isolating at times, so be sure you are fostering those relationships at all times. 

Do #5: Study.

Keep your academic game strong this semester. You have extra time to study, get tutoring, and visit office hours – USE IT.

It doesn’t get any easier from here, so, make sure you are positioning yourself as best you can for the semesters when you will need to rely on the gpa you’ve already buffed up.

The Don’ts:

Don’t #1: spend all of your time partying..

Most college kids party, I’m not ignorant to this fact and, honestly, I had my fair share of nights out with my teammates. 

With that said, you will want to act responsibly as a redshirt athlete when it comes to navigating the night-life social scene on campus. 

It’s not a great look to spend both Friday and Saturday night out, partying, while your teammates are busting their butts at an away game. 

It’s also important to note that whatever you decide to put into your body over the weekend will have an impact on your athletic performance during the week. Let’s remember that you are competing with your teammates for a spot to play. 

Will excessive partying help you get there? No.

Don’t #2: Netflix and Chill all weekend.

Revisit Do #1 if you need further reason to avoid wasting away in your dorm room all weekend. 

Once again, you only live once. You’ll only be in college once. You’ll only be a redshirt athlete once. Do you really want to spend the whole time watching television? No.

Don’t #3: Get caught up in compromising situations or useless relationships.

This season is all about becoming the best you can be. 

Your redshirt semester is a time when you should be maturing; physically, mentality, and emotionally. 

Think before you act. Avoid people and situations that make you feel uncomfortable or insecure. No one has time for that, and especially not you this semester.

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Demystifying the Redshirt in College Basketball

Hey there hoops fan! Have you ever wondered what it means when announcers refer to a "redshirt freshman" or a player "taking a redshirt year?" If so, you‘ve come to the right place.

As a former college player myself, I‘m going to breakdown everything you need to know about redshirting in college basketball. I hope this guide clears up what exactly it means to redshirt and how it impacts teams and players. Let‘s take a deep dive into the intriguing world of the college basketball redshirt.

What is a Redshirt?

In simple terms, "redshirting" means voluntarily sitting out a season of competition to save a year of NCAA eligibility. Redshirt players still attend classes and practice with the team, but they don‘t appear in any official games during that year.

The term "redshirt" originated in college football, when quarterbacks wore red jerseys during practice to prevent them from being tackled. Sitting out games became known as redshirting since those players typically wore red in practice.

Nowadays, redshirting happens across all college sports, including basketball. Taking a redshirt year gives athletes extra time to develop before starting their "clock" of eligibility.

Why Players Redshirt

There are many reasons a men‘s or women‘s basketball player might take a redshirt season. Here are some of the most common:

• Recover from injury
• Improve skills or change positions
• Sit behind talented upperclassmen
• Adapt to college life as an underprepared freshman
• Satisfy transfer requirements after changing schools

Coaches also strategically redshirt recruits to balance out their roster over 4-5 years. For example, they might redshirt multiple freshmen in one class so they don‘t all graduate at once.

Redshirting Rules and Regulations

The NCAA has strict guidelines about redshirting that schools must follow:

Athletes get one redshirt season during their 5-year eligibility window.

Redshirt players can‘t compete in any outside competition, including scrimmages or exhibition games.

Athletes must be listed on the active roster and attend all team practices to maintain redshirt status.

Players can participate in up to 30% of games in modern conferences before losing their redshirt.

Coaches must request redshirt approval prior to the start of the season.

As you can see, the rules limit flexibility once the season starts. Coaches must plan redshirts carefully in advance.

The Ins and Outs of Redshirt Status

Redshirting seems simple on the surface, but there are some intricate dynamics at play. Here are key considerations that impact redshirt eligibility:

Frontloading talent – Coaches often redshirt several recruits in one class to "frontload" talent and avoid graduation drop-offs. For example, Kentucky frequently redshirts multiple top freshmen each year. This allows them to continue pursuing loaded recruiting classes annually.

Roster balance – Strategic redshirting creates a balanced roster with experienced upperclassmen and developing underclassmen at each position. Programs like Gonzaga leverage this model to maintain consistency.

Position battles – Redshirting becomes more complex when multiple players at one position are vying for playing time. Coaches promise opportunity to win starting roles, complicating redshirt plans.

Roster deficits – Things get tricky when injuries or transfers leave unexpected holes in a roster. Coaches may be forced to pull a redshirt player into action, costing them a year of eligibility.

Developmental years – Certain programs redshirt all freshmen as a rule to give them a year to develop in the system. Schools like Duke give first-year players a redshirt-like role even without redshirting.

As you can see, there are no shortcuts when strategically managing redshirts across a roster. The best coaches carefully balance current needs with future upside. Let‘s look at how they make it work.

Redshirt Recruiting Management

Here are some insights into how skilled coaches successfully manage their recruiting classes and redshirt decisions:

Project future scholarship openings for each class based on senior departures

Pursue recruits at each position to match projected roster availability

Sign more recruits than scholarships open for flexibility

Identify 1-2 redshirt candidates at each position based on long-term potential

Allow depth chart competition in practice to finalize redshirts

Utilize summer practice before redshirt decisions are finalized

Get buy-in from each player on their expected redshirt role

Make data-driven redshirt choices setting up roster balance and continuity

As you can see, managing redshirts across recruiting classes is a complex balancing act requiring foresight and strategic planning. The best college basketball programs excel at this process.

Redshirt Rules Differences by Conference

One tricky aspect of redshirting is that the rules differ slightly between conferences. Here is a breakdown of the redshirt regulations in each of the major NCAA conferences:

As you can see, the ACC and Big Ten stick to a hard 4-game cap, while other Power 5 conferences allow up to 30% of the schedule. The Big East does not define a game limit, handling redshirts on a case-by-case basis.

These slight differences mean coaches must understand their specific league‘s rules when weighing redshirt decisions. A player could retain their redshirt in the Big 12 while losing it in the ACC based on number of appearances.

The Redshirt Sophomore Phenomenon

In recent years there has been a rise in breakout "redshirt sophomore" basketball stars making the leap to the NBA draft. Here are some high profile examples:

Zion Williamson (Duke) – Consensus NCAA Player of the Year in 2019 as a redshirt freshman after redshirting his true freshman season. Drafted 1st overall in 2019 NBA draft.

Hamidou Diallo (Kentucky) – After redshirting 2016-17 season, averaged 10 points per game as redshirt freshman before entering 2018 NBA draft.

Donte DiVincenzo (Villanova) – Redshirted 2015-16 freshman year, then was breakout star of Villanova‘s 2018 title team as redshirt sophomore. Drafted 17th overall in 2018.

Based on my analysis, there are a few factors driving this trend:

Players recognizing the benefits of extra development time before turning pro

Raised NBA draft eligibility requirements pushing players into college

Increased rate of players redshirting for development rather than injury

NBA teams valuing sophomore-year breakouts rather than freshman potential

Overall, it‘s a win-win for both players and college programs when stars willingly redshirt to expand their games. Let‘s dive into the pros and cons of redshirting for individual players.

Redshirt Pros and Cons for Athletes

Redshirting has many potential benefits, but also some inherent risks, for individual basketball players. Here is an overview of key pros and cons they must weigh:

Extra year to develop skills before competing

Build strength and fitness with dedicated practice time

Avoid injury risk during key physical development years

Adjust to college life and basketball‘s pace and pressure

Learn the team‘s system and terminology before contributing

Opportunity to earn starting role after a year of preparation

Waste of a scholarship year if transferring or cut

Gap in competitive experience and exposure

Potential stunting of momentum coming out of high school

No guarantee of starting role after redshirt season

Mental toll of watching teammates compete and contribute

Delayed opportunity to showcase skills and chase dreams

As you can see, there are compelling arguments on both sides that athletes must consider. Each individual situation is unique. Players must choose what they feel is best for their long-term basketball journey when weighing whether or not to redshirt.

Examples of Impactful Redshirt Seasons

Many of the greatest college basketball players of all-time have redshirted at some point in their careers. Here are some prominent examples of redshirt seasons that shaped legends‘ stories:

Tyler Hansbrough (North Carolina) – National Player of the Year as a redshirt freshman in 2006 after redshirting his true freshman year. Went on to become UNC‘s all-time scoring leader.

JJ Redick (Duke) – Redshirted as a freshman in 2002-2003, then went on to become the ACC‘s all-time leading scorer and a first team All-American.

A‘ja Wilson (South Carolina) – Redshirted her freshman year of 2013-2014. Won National Player of the Year honors after four stellar seasons at South Carolina as a redshirt senior.

Blake Griffin (Oklahoma) – Suffered a knee injury requiring surgery nine games into his true freshman season. Received a medical redshirt exemption allowing him to come back and win Naismith Award.

Russell Westbrook (UCLA) – Joined UCLA in 2005 but redshirted behind upperclassman guards. Emerged as a star his redshirt freshman season before becoming a top-5 NBA draft pick.

As you can see, redshirting played a pivotal role in amplifying some of the NCAA‘s biggest stars and extending their journeys.

Addressing Common Redshirt Questions

Hopefully this overview helped explain redshirting and clear up common questions. Here are direct answers to some other frequent redshirt issues:

Do redshirts still practice and travel with the team?

Yes, redshirts are full members of the team. They practice daily, attend film sessions, lift weights, etc. Some redshirts even travel to road games.

Can a player redshirt for reasons besides injury?

Absolutely. In fact, most redshirts today are strategic decisions rather than injury related. Freshmen often redshirt to aid development.

Do redshirt seasons still count against NCAA eligibility?

Yes, a redshirt uses 1 of your 4 seasons of NCAA eligibility. But it does not count against your 5 total years to complete 4 seasons of competition.

Can coaches require a recruit to redshirt?

No, players must voluntarily choose to redshirt. But coaches can strongly influence that decision through promises of opportunity after redshirting.

Do players have to decide before the season if they‘ll redshirt?

Yes, redshirt status must be declared prior to the season. Emergencies can allow removal of a redshirt, but it can‘t be added retroactively.

I hope this guide brought you up to speed on all things related to redshirting! Let me know if you have any other college basketball questions.

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Everything You Need to Know About Redshirting: NCAA’s Rules and Regulations on Eligibility

S ynonymous with college athletics, the term redshirt is used freely when discussing student-athlete eligibility. What are the rules of redshirting, how can one earn a redshirt, and what else do you need to know about the term “redshirt” are all explained below.

Redshirt Rules and Regulations

Simply put, a redshirt is a delay in the participation of a student-athlete. These delays are set in place to further the player’s eligibility period as collegiate athletics gives their athletes five years to participate in four seasons, typically unable to extend past six years of eligibility.

The term redshirt only applies to scholarship athletes or those athletes who are attending a college or university on an athletic scholarship.

What is a Redshirt?

During a redshirt year, student-athletes participate in classes and studies and can take part in practices and off-field activities of their scholarship program. They can even dress for their respective games, so long as they don’t exceed the current rules and limitations set forth by the NCAA.

With proper use of a redshirt year, a college athlete can play five years of a sport, using their four years of eligibility in doing so. This is where the term redshirt-freshman or redshirt-junior comes into play.

A redshirt-freshman is a college sophomore but maintained their freshman year of eligibility by garnering a redshirt.

Where Did the Word Redshirt Originate?

The term redshirt came directly from the sport of college football itself. While it’s been defined by Webster’s Dictionary as coming from the red jersey that such players would commonly wear in practice scrimmages against regular athletes, it origin dates back to the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

Warren Alfson, a guard/linebacker for the Huskers, is generally considered the first player to record a redshirt and as the inventor of the term.

Alfson, who walked on and played for the team’s freshman squad for a season, asked the school for permission to keep practicing but not to play as he continued to learn the sport. In doing so, he wore a Nebraska jersey without a number on it, thus a ‘redshirt,’ and allowed him to condition with the team while he waited for the upperclassmen to graduate.

He became an All-American in 1939 and a 16th-round NFL Draft pick of the Brooklyn Dodgers, most famous now for his contribution to common nomenclature.

How Many Games Can You Play While Maintaining A Redshirt?

Formerly, there were set snap guidelines that players had to adhere to in regards to limiting their playing time in order to maintain a redshirt.

Prior to the 2018 season, the NCAA amended a proposal from the AFCA that radically changed the redshirt rules to a simpler system. Removing medical redshirts and allowing an easy-to-understand limit of “no more than four games played” in order to maintain a redshirt.

Division II approved a similar redshirt rule before the 2023 season, allowing players to play in no more than three games while maintaining a redshirt season.

Other Color “Shirts” for Athletes

Besides redshirts, college athletics are synonymous with other-colored shirts in their terminology. Medical redshirts are now known as hardships or as a hardship waiver.

Grayshirt is the most commonly known other color used in college athletics. These grayshirts are unofficial members of a program and do not practice, play in games, nor receive financial retribution for attending the university from the athletic department.

The most common occurrence of grayshirts are players who need another year after high school to prepare for college competition, whether that’s religious reasons (i.e., mission trips) or injuries sustained in high school.

Blueshirts are a less common occurrence in college athletics nowadays and refer to athletes who never made official visits, nor did they meet with school athletic employees yet participate in one way or another. Think a walk-on athlete.

These blueshirts can receive scholarships once enrolled, and their scholarships count toward the following year’s quota.

College Football Redshirt Season Explained

When it comes to college football, the term “redshirt” often pops up in conversations. But what does it really mean, and why is it essential for certain student-athletes? To get…

Al Messerschmidt / USA TODAY Sports

So, redshirted athletes aren’t sidelined or excluded from the team’s activities. They’re very much part of the action, contributing to the team’s overall success even when they’re not on the field.

Physical and Mental Growth

Perhaps the most significant advantage of redshirting is the opportunity it provides for athletes to grow physically and mentally. Sokol reflects on how the extra year helped him improve his strength, speed, and understanding of the game.

“I gained so much strength and speed during my redshirt year. Being in a D1 strength program for an entire year focusing on just getting better will do wonders for an athlete,” Sokol says. “I also had the playbook down and gained that leadership role that I wanted heading into the next year.”

This period of intense preparation and development pays off when these athletes return to the field. They are not only physically superior but also mentally sharper, making better decisions and contributing to their teams’ success.

Takeaways for Signing Day Sports Users

The concept of redshirting might seem like a distant one for high school athletes aspiring to play college football. However, it’s a crucial part of the college football experience, and understanding it can help young athletes make more informed decisions.

Here are some key takeaways that every high school athlete should consider:

• Strategic Planning : Redshirting isn’t just about delaying play; it’s about strategically planning your college football career. Assess your goals and see if redshirting aligns with them.
• Physical and Mental Growth : The extra year can be a game-changer. It allows you to get stronger, faster, and mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.
• Team Involvement : Redshirted athletes are an integral part of the team. They participate in practices, workouts, and even travel with the team. It’s a valuable experience.
• Long-Term Benefits : The benefits of redshirting extend beyond the extra year of eligibility. It sets you up for a more successful and fulfilling college football journey.

At Signing Day Sports , we believe in equipping student-athletes with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their athletic careers. Whether it’s understanding the intricacies of redshirting, navigating the recruiting process, or staying up to date with the latest developments in college sports, we’re here to provide the information you need to succeed.

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What Does Redshirt Mean in College Sports?

Reviewed by Jacob Imm

Sep 13, 2021

Rules in college athletics are highly nuanced. Not following the guidelines can result in suspension, revocation of scholarships or even a loss of eligibility. It’s crucial for college athletes to know the regulations before they embark on collegiate sport, and one of the most important things to know about are redshirt seasons.

Redshirt refers to a year in which a student-athlete sits out for a playing season, but still maintains their four-year eligibility. While redshirt is not an official National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) term, the practice is commonly adopted by NCAA Division I and Division II athletics programs.

Today, we’ll dig deeper into the question: What does redshirt mean in college sports? Read on for more information about redshirt athlete policies at collegiate institutions. 

What Happens When You Redshirt in Collegiate Sports?

In short, to redshirt means to sit out for a year. A redshirt season or redshirt year is when a college athlete elects to not compete in games against other teams. Although they cannot participate in outside competition during this time, the student-athlete can still :

• Practice with the team
• Receive athletic scholarships or financial aid
• Attend classes
• Train on their own or with a coach

What is the Purpose of Redshirt?

NCAA rules state that student-athletes playing for Division I or Division II schools have 10 semesters, or five full school years, to complete four years of competitive college sports.

However, NCAA rules also state that of these five years, a student-athlete only has four years of eligibility to compete against other teams. As such, at any point within their 10 semesters, a student-athlete can opt to sit out of intercollegiate competition for a year to:

• Lengthen their eligibility for intercollegiate competition or games
• Sharpen their skills to participate at the college level (especially freshmen)
• Recover from an injury
• Improve their GPA to meet university and NCAA educational requirements

In short, the main purpose of redshirting is to provide flexibility to the athlete, as well as to their team. Redshirting gives coaches and athletic directors options that they can exercise to help young student-athletes work on all the other aspects of college life without the pressure of immediate top-level competition. This can also help freshmen transition more smoothly from high school sports and academics to their college-level counterparts, reducing the risk of overwhelming freshmen athletes.  

Redshirting can also help athletes who’ve become injured before a season begins by preserving their eligibility for when they’re healthy and ready to play again. 

Unfortunately, in some cases of injury, a student-athlete cannot redshirt. For example, if an athlete seriously injures themselves during the first minute of the first game of the season and is unable to play for the rest of the year, that one-minute play would count as one of their seasons of eligibility. Oftentimes, if an athlete is prone to injury before a season starts, a coach will recommend a redshirt season as a strategic move. 

But specific redshirting rules and regulations differ depending on whether the student-athlete is competing at a Division I, Division II, or Division III level.

How Does Redshirting Work for Each Division

Redshirt is not an official term recognized by the NCAA. As such, the rules for redshirting are different for each division of college athletics. They are as follows:

• Division I – Athletes have five full years to complete four years of competition during their career as student-athletes. This five-year clock begins when they enroll as a full-time student and continues even if they transition to part-time or transfer to another school. Division I college football players in particular are also able to participate in up to four games during a season without losing redshirt status. 
• Division II – Athletes have 10 semesters or 15 quarters to participate as student-athletes. Like Division I athletes, Division II players have four years in which they can compete against other teams. Any semester where you’re enrolled full-time will count toward this number, but part-time terms or no-competition terms don’t count.
• Division III – Student-athletes are not permitted to have elective redshirt status at Division III colleges. However, in some cases, medical redshirting is allowed when an athlete plays one-third of their playing season or less before an injury. When this occurs, the coach can file paperwork with the NCAA to restore a season of eligibility. 

Is Being Redshirted a Bad Thing?

Redshirting is not a punishment or an indicator of poor behavior or lack of skill. Rather, this practice is used to help student-athletes flourish, whether it’s lengthening their training time, providing them with an extra year of play due to an injury, or giving them the chance to further strengthen their athletic development. 

In fact, many students-athletes take advantage of redshirting to better prepare for a career in professional sports. In these instances, the fifth year is utilized to “get better athletically, get their degree, and get a huge step up on their career ,” making redshirting a beneficial and worthwhile opportunity. 

Can You Play and Still Redshirt?

Because the purpose of redshirting is to give student-athletes the opportunity to sit out of a year of competition, they’re not able to compete with other teams while redshirting. Athletes who are undergoing a redshirt season may only participate in their sport during practice or non-competitive training with their coaches or peers.

Play at North Central College

While student-athletes don’t usually plan on redshirting, it’s important to know how the process works before you enter into  college competition. That knowledge is just one part of the vital decision you have to make on where you want your college athletics career to start.

Division III schools  like North Central College prioritize a well-rounded college experience for their student-athletes that balances sports and education, giving you a chance to fully experience every part of college life. With their help, you can have a rewarding and successful career as a student-athlete and never have to worry about a redshirt.

At North Central College, students can choose from 27 different Division III athletics programs , including football, cross country, track and field, softball, basketball, volleyball, and many more. North Central has a tradition of excellence that includes 40 team national championships and 142 individual and relay national championships. Request more information and find out how to begin  your student-athlete journey as a Cardinal today!

If you’re looking for more information about college athletics, read our linked blogs “ Can you play two sports in college ?”, “ Can D3 give athletic scholarships ?” and “ How to be a good student athlete ”. 

Tatum AR. What Does Redshirt Mean in College Sports? Study.com. 

https://study.com/academy/popular/what-does-redshirt-mean-in-college-sports.html . Accessed July 19, 2021. 

Transfer Terms. NCAA.org - The Official Site of the NCAA. 

https://www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/current/transfer-terms . Published April 19, 2021. Accessed July 19, 2021. 

NCAA Eligibility Requirements for Student-Athletes. NCSA Sports. 

https://www.ncsasports.org/ncaa-eligibility-center/eligibility-requirements . Accessed July 19, 2021. 

Brutlag-Hosick M. DI football to offer more participation opportunities. NCAA.org - The Official Site of the NCAA. 

https://www.ncaa.org/about/resources/media-center/news/di-football-offer-more-participation-opportunities . Published June 13, 2018. Accessed July 19, 2021. 

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Davis, California

Year off field doesn’t mean year off work

If you’ve gone to a collegiate sporting event and looked at the team rosters, you may have seen some players designated as RS, meaning they are or have been a redshirt player. But what exactly is a redshirt player?

“The classic redshirt is the player who is on the roster but does not play in any games, but participates in all of the other team activities that exist: training, weights, meetings. You just don’t play in any games,” said Dan Leyson, the Child And Meisel Families director of men’s water polo and men’s water polo head coach. “For young players coming out of high school, joining a team that has a fair amount of experience, the experience [for the redshirting athlete] is invaluable, because you get to experience what it is like to be on the team without the pressure in playing in games. By the time you start playing in your second year, you have a year of experience under your belt.”

While a player may choose to redshirt because they have a serious injury that requires extended time off for healing purposes, known as a “medical redshirt,” the majority of redshirting players do so as freshmen, hoping to gain the mentality and experience to play at the collegiate level. Redshirts are not able to play in any collegiate games, and if they do happen to play a game during this time, they “burn” their year for eligibility.

Many players who choose to redshirt consider it an amazing experience that helps them achieve their collegiate goals. Senior attacker for men’s water polo Spencer Galli said that redshirting was worthwhile.

“Just taking the first year to sit out, learn all the plays, watch and learn what my teammate tendencies are before I go out there [and play] is huge and allowed me to be stronger and better overall,” Galli said.

Current UC Davis redshirting athletes also see the benefits of being redshirts in their freshman year and are excited to see what the future holds.

“I think there are a lot of advantages to redshirting,” said Christian Skeptaris, a current redshirt freshman and men’s football tight end. “Your body gets to mature, you get a whole year to go up against starters and learn the speed of the game and how big everyone actually is.”

Even though redshirting sounds like a great option, there is one hardship that players who are redshirting have to deal with.

“I think the hardest part is just the mental side of understanding that even though you really want to be on the field and you really love the sport, you just have to wait your turn and be patient,” said Isiah Thomas, a redshirting freshman and men’s football defensive back.

Sometimes, there are rare cases where someone straight out of high school is thrown onto a collegiate team, and expected to keep up with a new system, team, coaching staff and style of play, without redshirting their freshman year.

“I came in and was pretty much going to be starting to get playing time so I really had to get mentally focused and really work hard in practice to get stronger,” said Jonah Addington, a freshman goalkeeper for the men’s water polo team.

Addington came to UC Davis as a goalkeeper for men’s water polo, but, after a shortage of starting players in the goalkeeper position, was put into the scenario where he would have to quickly adjust to an enhanced level of play.

“I have been playing water polo all my life so I have been working for it, but [the challenge is] reacting to the quickness of the game,” Addington said. “Everything is so much faster, so I really had to focus on getting stronger and getting quicker movements to be more explosive.”

While some may think that redshirting and getting a year off from playing in collegiate games seems like a vacation for players, Galli assures that it is not the case.

“You have to be fully committed, and you can’t be off in your own world, because you are a valuable part of the team,” Galli said. “You have to want to get better and want to learn everything.”

Skeptaris emphasized the takeaways of the redshirting experience.

“Don’t look at is a negative thing,” Skeptaris said. “Only positives come from it. It is what you make it, and if you get excited and make the most of it it’ll help you when you are [out there] playing.”

Written by: Ryan Bugsch — [email protected]

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Four weeks in, all the answers to your redshirt-rule questions

Paul Finebaum reacts to QB Kelly Bryant announcing he will transfer from Clemson after being benched. (0:50)

• ESPN staff writer
• Joined ESPN in 2011
• Graduated from Central Michigan

Clemson knew it had a quarterback controversy when the No. 2-ranked player in the 2018 recruiting class, quarterback Trevor Lawrence , signed with the Tigers and stepped on campus.

Incumbent starter Kelly Bryant had won 12 games and led the Tigers to the College Football Playoff in 2017, but through the first few games of this season Lawrence kept nipping at his heels until ultimately he was named the starter by head coach Dabo Swinney after the fourth game.

The timing of that decision is no coincidence. The new redshirt rule enacted this year by the Division I council states that a player can participate in up to four games of a single season without burning his redshirt, thus saving a year of eligibility. Redshirting this season will allow Bryant to eventually transfer as a graduate and play immediately at the new program he chooses.

Back in June, ESPN asked anonymous assistant coaches from the ACC, Pac-12 and SEC to help explain some of the finer points involving what this rule means and who would be most impacted by it. Now that we are four games into the season, let's try to answer some questions you might have about how the redshirt rule can be applied.

Does this apply to all players?

Initially the thought was that this rule would mainly apply to incoming true freshmen. The first-year players could play in up to four games of the season and contribute and develop without burning a redshirt.

We are seeing now that the rule is having a big impact on more veteran players, using the rule to determine if their playing time will diminish, like Bryant at Clemson.

The rule does not discriminate against the number of years spent in a program, so it applies not just to true freshmen but any player who has not participated in more than four games in a single season.

The caveat to that is that the transfer rules still apply, so if a third-year player decides to redshirt for the season and transfer out after the season, he is still required to sit out the following year before being eligible to play. The way around that is for a player to graduate and then transfer, which would allow him to play immediately, similar to the way quarterback Joe Burrow did when he left Ohio State for LSU.

Who are the high-profile veteran players who are already taking advantage of this?

Bryant is not the only veteran taking advantage of the new rule. Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy announced on Monday that wide receiver Jalen McCleskey would be transferring and that the school will allow McCleskey to sit out the rest of the season to use his redshirt before he moves on to another program.

Gundy said McCleskey didn't feel good about the Cowboys getting him the ball, despite that he had 15 receptions for 155 yards and two touchdowns in the first four games. Allowing non-freshmen to utilize this rule could be an issue for roster management, according to Gundy.

"If I was just to throw something out there, probably should be a rule that would be consistent within your first two years of eligibility," Gundy said. "So the NCAA's going to have to take a hard look, because right now the rules, forget Jalen's situation, the rules don't allow us to add a number to that. So let's say you had five guys do it, well I'm playing with 80 instead of 85 on scholarship now and I can't replace those numbers, even at the semester."

McCleskey is joined by Oregon senior running back Taj Griffin, Arkansas wide receiver Jonathan Nance and Auburn receiver Nate Craig-Myers and tight end Jalen Harris, who all intend to redshirt and transfer at the end of the season.

Oklahoma coach Lincoln Riley also feels the spate of transfers means the NCAA may need to make adjustments.

"As we go forward with this rule, it may be something we need to look at," Riley said. "Because I don't know if it's good if you play a game for somebody that you should then be able to go play for somebody else or leave that year. I don't know. Maybe there should be a stronger penalty, potentially. I don't have the answers right now. We're all working through it."

Alabama coach Nick Saban noted on his radio show last week that the intent of the rule was to allow younger players to develop in real game action, but Saban said he's worried the use of the rule by older players will start to cause problems for coaches trying to manage their rosters.

"Now, I think that people are manipulating the rule in terms of older players who may be thinking, 'I could be a graduate transfer, so maybe if I only play in four games this year, I'll have a place to play next year,'" Saban said. "I don't think that was really the intent of the rule. It's probably one of those unintended consequences of what all rules sort of bring."

Which freshmen have made the most of the new rule?

Lawrence is one of the true freshmen who have made the most of the first four games of the season. Coming in as the No. 2-ranked prospect in the country, behind only Georgia quarterback Justin Fields , many believed Lawrence would eventually earn significant playing time, but he has now been named the starter.

"After four games, just looking at it, they've both played well, but this came down to you have to reward productivity. [Lawrence] has taken advantage of [opportunities]," co-offensive coordinator Tony Elliott said Monday. "Kelly didn't do anything wrong, but it's a situation where he's been in the game and productive, and to be fair to competition, just like we do for every position, Coach [Swinney] decided to name him the starter."

Lawrence split time with Bryant in each of the first four games, completing 39 of 60 passes for 600 yards and nine touchdowns along the way.

Fields has had less opportunities, completing 14 of 17 passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns at Georgia with Jake Fromm ahead of him on the roster. Fields has appeared in all four games as well, though, so if he plays against Tennessee on Saturday, his redshirt opportunity will be gone. A redshirt is very unlikely, but the opportunity is there.

LSU senior left guard Garrett Brumfield has been ruled out for the Tigers' game against Ole Miss and coach Ed Orgeron said he is unsure when he will be back. Lucky for LSU, freshman Chasen Hines has been able to come in on two occasions when Brumfield went down. Hines was originally a defensive lineman but switched to offensive line earlier in the year and is now very likely to be the starting left guard in Brumfield's place. He can fill in two more games before burning his redshirt.

How has the rule impacted playing time for freshmen?

In 2017, Auburn played 11 true freshmen the entire season and nine through the first four games. This season, the Tigers have played 21 first-year players, nine of whom have played in all four games.

Clemson has seen an increase as well, playing 13 true freshmen so far this season, compared to eight in 2017. Among the 13, Lawrence, defensive lineman Xavier Thomas , wide receivers Justyn Ross and Derion Kendrick and kicker B.T. Potter have played in all four games.

Georgia increased its freshmen usage from 15 last season to 20 this season; Notre Dame increased from 10 to 14; and Oklahoma played eight true freshmen last season compared to 14 in 2018, with three playing in all four games thus far. Penn State only played three true freshmen in 2017 but already has played 15 in 2018. Stanford has seen eight true freshmen play in the first four games this season to four through the first four games of last season.

Those totals will likely change going forward. Not every player is going to play the whole season, and likely not every true freshman who will play this season has played. Coaches are being strategic about when to use their freshmen and how.

Texas coach Tom Herman said he and his staff are learning every week and coming up with new ideas daily to figure out which games to use his freshmen players.

"There will be some guys that maybe get injured early part of the season, and you maybe say, 'OK, let's take the middle couple games here and just not do anything at all and then use [the redshirt rule] at the end of the year,' and then you still get that year," Herman said. "That case can be made for a lot of true freshmen as well that we've held off of special teams. That might have been their only role back in the day, and you say, 'That's good enough for 10, 15 snaps a game on special teams, you're going to contribute.'

"But now it's like, 'Well if we can just save these, if we can get by on special teams toward the end of the season, we can have a mass shift in the personnel and use a bunch of fresh true freshmen who had two months of training with us as well.'"

A few thoughts from some of the coaches we talked to in June:

What do coaches think of the new rule?

ACC coach: "I think, No. 1, every place I've ever coached my entire life, a kid has a story that he played 15 snaps because there was an injury. He played 15 snaps or 30 snaps and lost an entire year because of it. It's not fair to him, because he had to do it because of the injury, so now kids are safe from that. I also think a lot of coaches, especially in nonconference play, will be a lot more apt to play those borderline freshmen. Maybe he gets a taste of live action, he plays better with the motivation of playing time, and as a coach, you're not so worried about burning that kid's redshirt."

Pac-12 coach: "I think it's a really good thing. It could be motivation. If you go down and crush it on scout team for the first half of the season, now there's that motivation that we'll play you. You don't have to wait until next year. I don't see too many negatives with it."

SEC coach: "I think there's obviously more positive [impact]. The majority of the kids who come to college now are so far ahead physically, they're closer to being ready to play. The thing that is the unknown is how the kid is going to handle college mentally. Those are the things that usually hold some guys back. The only way you can determine that is to put them out there and play. It'll give you an opportunity to put them out there under the lights and make a decision if this guy is a two-game guy or a one-game guy."

Are there any negatives to the new rule?

SEC coach: "I think there are some things that will come from this, but I do think there's going to be an influx of transfers. You play a kid two games and then you pull him back; he goes through the whole year and he does everything you ask. You get to the bowl game and you're going to play that kid because you're anticipating he's going to contribute next year. So you're going to play that kid in the bowl game because it doesn't trigger his redshirt. There's going to be somebody on the team that says if you're already playing him in the bowl game ahead of me, I'm probably not going to play next year. So that's going to create some transfers or movement."

What players could this impact the most?

ACC coach: "That's going to be huge for quarterbacks. Especially a guy who's behind an established starter. If you do it right, you basically have four seasons and four games, and I think for the overall development of the kid, that will be huge. One of the unintended consequences of it, because of the rule, a lot more freshman quarterbacks will play. Just to keep them happy, keep him there, hopefully don't transfer, you'll put him out there. On the flip side of that, when you have these five-star quarterbacks who can play, but they're at a place with an established starter, now if they transfer, [other teams will] have a lot more tape to look at. You're getting a lot more grad transfers with two years of eligibility, and now you'll have more tape from actual game film to scout."

SEC coach: "Offensive and defensive line is probably an area you won't see it as much. But the skill positions, you might get a receiver who is physically ready but might not know the playbook, so it buys him some time."

Does the new rule impact Power 5 or Group of 5 schools more?

Pac-12 coach: "I don't know that it will necessarily impact either one more than the other. As far as those big-time recruits that people think will play right away, you kind of have an idea with him that he'll play early. But what about the kid that comes in and didn't have all the hype and he's just crushing it on scout team? I think there are more of those type of players at the Group of 5 level. You're bringing in 25 guys who aren't five-stars and you don't know how it's going to sort out."

SEC coach: "I think it helps the Group of 5 schools the most, because you're expanding the depth. If you can replace that second-string walk-on with a freshman scholarship guy for four games, maybe you can win a few more [games]. It helps those Group of 5 teams establish legitimate scholarship depth, and you're not playing with walk-ons. Your first-string guy is good, and there's a big drop off to your second string; now you can plug in a freshman and you give yourself a chance."

How do you choose which games to play your athletes in?

ACC coach: "I think there's going to be a whole science in terms of roster management with it. Let's say everyone's healthy; now what four games do we want to get guys experience in so they're better as a redshirt freshman, sophomore and junior? I don't think it will be a blanket deal. With quarterbacks, you'll have coaches who will only play guys in blowouts, then you'll have the coaches who will say let's be smart about it and get this kid 10 reps in a rivalry game, even if it's just on special teams, so he can be a part of it. The kids that are redshirting on the scout team, let's get this kid 12 reps on kickoff and use it as a motivational tool. I think there will be some forward thinking if they use it as a motivational tool or developmental tool."

Pac-12: "The biggest advantage of the whole thing is the attrition. Guys are going down with injuries and the rosters aren't super big already. Now you can use those four games to help bridge injuries and you're not burning a redshirt. And you can save guys for the bowl games. We're seeing a lot of big-name guys not play in bowl games, and I think this will add an element to it. This kid's going to be a top-10 [draft] pick and wants to preserve his interests. Well, now I can activate this freshman [in his place], and he's getting better and more comfortable for the next season."

SEC coach: "We're not going to throw kids out there that aren't anywhere near ready; it's not a test run. You put a corner out there and he doesn't get the check, it doesn't matter if you're playing William & Mary or Alabama, he's going to get scored on. So do you use the guy who's ready in the first four games to see what's going on? In the middle of the season when the injury bug hits and you're trying to get through that? Do you use him in one nonconference game and three conference games? If I'm Akron, I might not put him out there against Ohio State early on. For us, it might make sense to put our kids out early to build some confidence, give him a legitimate chance to show what he can do. It just depends on where you're at."

College football’s newest trend — the in-season redshirt-to-transfer: ‘Why waste a year?’

LOS ANGELES — What’s the point of being in a movie, Gary Bryant Sr. wondered, “if you’re not going to be part of the script?”

A year after ranking third on USC in receptions (44) and receiving yards (579) and leading the team in total touchdowns (eight), Gary Bryant Jr. entered this season with high expectations. But through three games, he was little more than a bit player in the Lincoln Riley-led offensive revival at USC.

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In those three games, Bryant caught just two passes for 15 yards. After that third game, Bryant and his family started pondering the future. But with new transfer windows in place, Bryant couldn’t enter the portal immediately. So he approached Riley and the staff to explore the possibility of redshirting (since he has played in fewer than four games). There is always the potential that plans could change, which Bryant Sr. acknowledges, but the widely held assumption is that Bryant will examine his options in the transfer portal once the regular season ends and the portal opens on Dec. 5.

“No disrespect to the coach because it’s all of what they want to do and who they want, but we’re not really seeing him get on the field,” Bryant Sr. told The Athletic earlier this week. “So it’s basically like, ‘Why waste a year when you can still possibly (save it)?’”

High-profile quarterbacks Kelly Bryant ( Clemson ) and D’Eriq King ( Houston ) made similar moves in 2018 and 2019, respectively. But since then, the one-time transfer rule has been adopted and a transfer window has been established. It leaves some players in a gray area — should they stick it out for the entire season (even if they plan on redshirting) or leave the team right away? — and some coaches looking for answers. And the trend is only going to pick up steam.

Just this week, it was reported that four SMU players have made similar decisions as Gary Bryant Jr. Wide receiver Dacari Collins left the Clemson program last month. Quarterback Hank Bachmeier recently left Boise State but was able to enter the portal immediately since he’s a grad transfer.

“You’ll start to see it more and more,” one Power 5 director of player personnel said, “and it’s already happening more than people think, too.”

After the first game, Bryant Sr. said he was “baffled.” His son was a starter in 2021, but the Trojans sought to upgrade the talent at receiver after Riley’s arrival. As a result, USC started three transfers at receiver in the season opener — reigning Biletnikoff Award winner Jordan Addison ; Mario Williams , who followed Riley from Oklahoma; and Brenden Rice , Jerry Rice’s son — along with Tahj Washington , who was a starter last season.

Bryant’s role was drastically reduced. He caught one pass for 7 yards in Week 1 against Rice in addition to returning some kicks and punts. The next week against Stanford : one catch for 8 yards. Week 3 against Fresno State : no catches at all.

“I mean, you’re kind of getting it now,” Bryant Sr. said. “You’re not their type of guy, so you’ve got to be strategic and you’ve got to start thinking: ‘OK, you know what? Do we stay here and waste this year or do you start being strategic and start thinking about your future and say, well I can save a year and whatever happens is God’s plan?’”

According to Bryant Sr., Riley told his son he envisioned his role increasing and that he would be making a mistake not to play. But as of now, Bryant is planning to redshirt.

And his case is a bit unique. Though players such as Bachmeier and Collins left their programs completely, Bryant is still enrolled at USC — he could get his degree in December — and he’s still practicing, just on the scout team. Riley handled it diplomatically when asked about the situation, stating after practice a few weeks ago: “Right now, the plan is he will redshirt.” He left it at that.

The USC fan base, on social media and message boards, has been mostly understanding of Bryant’s situation. Transfers were brought in, his production decreased, so redshirt and find another home where there’s an opportunity for more playing time. Bryant Sr. said his son’s teammates have been mostly supportive.

Of course, opinions on these types of moves will vary across the country depending on the situation and whom you ask.

An FBS assistant coach who recently went through a similar situation with his position group is understandably frustrated. After losing key personnel, his team might be forced to turn to a player who at one time was a third- or fourth-teamer. Or a starter might be pressed into duty on special teams and risk injury.

“It’s basically like you’ve had a rash of injuries but you didn’t get injuries, is what it equates to,” the assistant coach said. “The injury report should read ‘selfishness.’ Players leave at the end of the year. Coaches leave at the end of the year — before a bowl game, which I still think is wrong. You start the season, you finish it. It’s that simple.”

And there will be some who view such a move as flat-out quitting on your team.

“They said, ‘Coach, I’ve got a redshirt year,’” the coach said. “And (I said), ‘You’ve got a healthy body that could help your team.’ So obviously, there is a lot of ‘me’ in ‘team.’ Let’s just call it what it is: You’re quitting. You’re not redshirting. You’re quitting to go somewhere else.”

Bryant Sr. knows some of that criticism will be directed at his son and others who make a similar decision.

“I can’t get caught up in what someone else thinks,” he said. “Gary has to do what’s best for him, and as a dad, I have to show him how to be a man. You have to make a decision and stand on it. … Going back to Lincoln Riley, he made a decision and he left where he was at. He did get a lot of backlash, but you know what? He backed it up, and that’s what my son has to do. You don’t have to worry about what other people say; you have to do what’s best for you.”

These types of decisions will lead to many questions.

What happens if a player decides to redshirt with the intention to transfer and his program endures several injuries at his position and needs him to play?

How does it affect the dynamic or chemistry of a team when a player, like Bryant, is still around but has decided not to play when he could contribute?

“I think it totally has an effect on it. It definitely has an interesting dynamic to it,” the player personnel director said. “You never want to see signs of selfishness on a team. And that kind of sticks out as a selfish-type move. I think a better way to handle it is you keep that conversation private with your coaches. … But you need to have a good relationship, good communication with the coaches and be on the same page.”

Keeping that decision private is unrealistic for one simple reason: “That young man is going to want people to know he’s available,” the assistant coach said. “It’s not going to stay quiet. If I’m leaving, I want people to know I’m going to get the information leaked so people know: ‘I’m on the market. Come get me.’”

There’s no better example of that than UCF linebacker Terrence Lewis , who in September left UCF and wrote in a since-deleted tweet : “Any school wanna contact me can. I’ll be in the portal soon. Thank you.”

One of the other remaining questions: How will programs evaluate a player who decides to leave his team in the middle of the season? Some coaches will look down on it, but at the end of the day, talent is talent, and if a player has enough of it, exceptions will be made.

“There’s character questions that come up when a guy pops in the portal when he has other things like academics or he has issues off the field,” the player personnel director said, “and then you add on top that he basically quit on the team, then it becomes more of an issue.

“But if there’s no question about the kid’s character, he has everything else, ducks in a row, good academically, good character and we know him and recruited him before and he just wanted to preserve a year of eligibility because the team he’s currently on isn’t valuing him as much as he sees his value, then it’s understandable. So it’s kind of a case-by-case thing.”

Working the backchannels has always been imperative in the transfer game. It’s against NCAA rules to have contact with a student before he enters the portal. But nothing’s preventing a coach from reaching out to a trainer, a high school coach, families or friends.

That’s going to happen a bit earlier now, as well as other background work, as everyone tries to figure out which players are going to enter the portal, why they may have decided to leave their team in the middle of the season and if there are any other character issues to be concerned about.

“I think it’s so important now because we’re looking at guys, we’re looking at rosters across the country and tagging guys who we think could go in,” the player personnel director said. “We’re not hitting them up at all or doing anything through backchannels on ’em. It’s just like: ‘OK, this is a loaded room. We could see him go in the portal, and this is a position of need for us.’ And that happens in multiple places. You’re just trying to get out ahead of it even though you might not know who goes in.

“I was talking to someone the other day — in a month or a month and a half, early November, mid-November, you’re going to see that stuff start to heat up, the rumors start to heat up.”

Said the assistant coach: “Whenever this magic portal date hits, you better know what’s going on by November 5, not December 5. You’re going to have to have background information on who’s tapped out.”

Until that date comes, get ready to see more players making decisions like Bryant, the group at SMU and others. Your favorite team’s depth might take a hit in the process.

“It gives student-athletes a little bit of leverage,” Bryant Sr. said, “and different (avenues) to maneuver.”

(Top photo of Gary Bryant Jr.: Jordon Kelly / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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Subscribe to The Athletic for in-depth coverage of your favorite players, teams, leagues and clubs. Try a week on us.

Antonio Morales covers USC football for The Athletic. Previously, he spent three years at the Clarion Ledger in Mississippi, where he covered Ole Miss for two seasons and Jackson State for another. He also spent two years covering preps for the Orange County Register and Torrance Daily Breeze. Follow Antonio on Twitter @ AntonioCMorales

What Is A Redshirt Freshman In Football?

A redshirt freshman in football is a player that is in their second year of school yet their first year of athletic participation. In college, athletes are given four years of eligibility in their sport though using redshirting these players can spread this eligibility through five or six years of schooling.

In other words, athletes are allowed to compete in their sport for four seasons. But if a player utilizes redshirting he or she can sit out of competition for the first year of games and still maintain their four years of eligibility.

Redshirting players are still able to practice, condition, and receive academic assistance from the team. A redshirt year is usually time spent honing your skills so that your years of eligibility are used effectively.

If you are a redshirt freshman that means you redshirted your first year of eligibility. So even though it is your second year at the school it is your first year competing in your sport.

This marks the difference between a redshirt freshman and a true freshman . As a true freshman is a player that is playing in their first year at their college.

Redshirting in football is not to be confused with black shirts or gray shirting which are explained in other articles on the site.

Why Is It Called Redshirting?

The term redshirt is said to come from a football player for the Nebraska Cornhuskers who decided to sit out a season of competition in order to improve his play. These players still practice with the team yet does so in a red jersey with no numbers.

This numberless jersey came to be referred to as a redshirt after which the term was coined. At the time this was the first instance of a player sitting out a year of competition in order to improve his play.

How Many Years Can You Redshirt?

At most colleges and universities an athlete is able to redshirt for two years this means they can spend a total of six years at the school.

Though they are still only able to participate in four collegiate seasons of athletics regardless of the number of redshirt years.

Advantages And Disadvantages

Redshirting is a huge decision in college sports and like most choices, it comes with pros and cons. Below we will compare the advantages and disadvantages of redshirting in football.

More Time To Understand The Playbook

One beneficial aspect of redshirting for a year is the time you will have to learn the playbook. It is no surprise that college football playbooks are tough to understand. This is especially true for players coming out of high school.

Redshirted players may use this time to understand exactly what is going to expect out of their position when the time comes to play.

Get Your Body Into Shape

Getting your body into the shape demanded by a college football team is quite a difficulty on its own. Having a year with strength coaches and nutritionists will allow football players to get their bodies into the best shape of their life.

Much like the playbook when it comes to college football these coaches are going to demand a lot more out of you than in high school. This year of training will help athletes bridge that gap.

Acclimate To College Life

Outside of the sport itself, some players have trouble acclimating to college life. Taking this on plus all the responsibilities of playing your sport can be tough. By taking a redshirt season players may find themselves acclimating to college life quicker.

This will make it easier on them when the time comes around to play football the following year.

Don’t Always Get To Travel With The Team

Most collegiate sports teams have budgets and the majority do not include travelling redshirt players around throughout the year. This means by taking a redshirt year you will likely miss out on travelling with the team.

This means you may miss out on some of the team bonding and comradery that will take place throughout your first year of school.

Losing A Year Of Athletic Ability

If you plan on playing your sport professionally then spending a year not competing can be seen as a flaw. If a player is going to the NFL it is their best interest to get to the league as fast as possible.

In order to have a long career, you want to be drafted at a young age. By spending an extra year in college you will be losing one year of athletic ability.

What Is A Red Shirt Senior?

A redshirt senior is a player that is now in his last year of eligibility and was previously redshirted to start their college career. In other words, these players are in their fifth year of school and their fourth year of eligibility.

These players have an advantage over younger players as their extra year of redshirting allows them to be older than non redshirt players in their senior season.

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In the trenches: What does redshirt really mean

The Reflector News

Featured stories, division ii redshirting explained by coaches and student-athletes.

The love of a sport drives many student-athletes to pursue a collegiate athletic career. With strict rules from the NCAA on eligibility and the potential for an injury always looming, some athletes have the option to redshirt.

According to the NCAA, Division II student-athletes have 10 semesters, or five years, of full-time enrollment at a university to compete in athletics. However, they only have four years of eligibility to participate in games, meets or matches against outside competition. When an athlete does not compete or is injured during a season, they are eligible to redshirt, or essentially extend their academic career into a fifth year to use all four years of their athletic eligibility. As Former Head Football Coach Bob Bartolomeo said, athletes have “five years to play four.”

While the NCAA recognizes and uses the term redshirt, it is not considered an official term. According to Senior Associate Athletic Director for Compliance Scott Young, the term redshirt is used more so for the media and sports information as a way to designate athletes that are taking a fifth year from those on the more typical four year track. Athletes are either redshirted by choice or due to injury.

According to Young, the NCAA has two requirements for a medical redshirt: The injury must have occurred in the first half of the season and the athlete must have competed in less than 30 percent of the season.

Redshirt sophomore lacrosse attacker Abigail Lagos was redshirted during her freshman year due to a season-ending hip injury. Lagos said that she was frustrated because she wanted to play. Instead of practicing, she said she had to be patient and focus on getting healthy.

“It was hard. It was mentally challenging, but then physically challenging coming back because I injured my hip so I wasn’t able to run. I wasn’t able to walk as much,” Lagos said. “So it was hard to sit out and I remember I really didn’t want to go to any of the practices and a lot of the team things because I wasn’t as involved. I felt kind of distant from them because I wasn’t able to do everything that they were doing, even though I really wanted to. So it was a difficult process. Definitely not fun.”

Despite her initial frustration, Lagos said she thinks that the extra year will be beneficial because she will have more knowledge and skill, which will enable her to play at a different level. She plans to go into a graduate program for her fifth year while competing.

“… it’s a great opportunity to become a better player and develop and work on your craft.”

Athletes can also redshirt by choice. According to Young, in order to do this, the athlete cannot participate in organized competition against an outside opponent at any point in their season. Any athlete is eligible to redshirt as long as they meet this requirement, but oftentimes that decision is made after a discussion with their coaches, according to Bartolomeo. He said that he and other coaches never want to use an entire season of an athlete’s eligibility by playing them only once or twice. The decision to redshirt a freshman football player is partially based on whether the freshman can help the team win, according to Bartolomeo.

“For example, if there are four junior or senior wide receivers on the team and we have a freshman wide receiver it’s going to be hard to beat those juniors or seniors out. But, we always tell them [freshmen athletes] that, the other end, if you’re the best then you will play,” Bartolomeo said. “It [redshirting] is kind of decided as we go through the season. We pretty much, about game three or four, stop and decide permanently whether he’ll redshirt or not.”

Redshirt freshman defensive back Jackson Weston said that it was his coaches’ choice to redshirt him. He said that they believed he needed more time to grow and develop as a player and that redshirting him gave him that opportunity. According to Weston, the extra year gives him time to improve in the weight room, on the field and a head start on his academics.

“It was tough at first knowing you’re just practicing and you don’t get to see the field on Saturdays, but over time it dwells on you, and you realize it’s a great opportunity to become a better player and develop and work on your craft,” Weston said.

Redshirt sophomore wrestler Cayden Whitaker had a similar experience. He said that he and his coaches both decided he could use an extra season of preparation for competing.

“…I knew I wasn’t fully prepared yet to come into the college level straight out of high school my freshman year,” Whitaker said. “I knew if I got better on a daily basis and worked hard, coming into my sophomore year–my redshirt freshman year–I would be ready, and I was. That’s why I started last year. And I think I’m really prepared and I was a lot more prepared than I would’ve been my true freshman year.”

According to Head Women’s Soccer Coach Holly Cox, she does not go into the season with a plan to redshirt specific athletes, but plays whoever is going to help the team win. When she makes the decision to redshirt an athlete, she said that she takes into account their academic standing, their strength as a teammate and their athletic ability. Unlike football, which often recruits athletes who will not see field time for their first year or two, Cox said she recruits athletes she can play immediately. Because of this, fewer soccer players redshirt.

“I tend to find that goalkeepers redshirt a lot compared to field players [who] get moved around a lot so they don’t redshirt,” Cox said. “You try not to change goalkeepers too much because you don’t want to change the team chemistry.”

Like Cox and other coaches, redshirting is not at the forefront of many athletes’ minds. Redshirt senior softball utility Brooke Reiss was not planning on redshirting. At the beginning of her junior year, she took a semester off of softball to focus on her academics. When she returned to the team, she said that she did not think it was fair for her to play when she had only been practicing with the team for half of the year. She said that she planned to return to the field her senior year and not use her fourth year of eligibility, but a discussion with her coaches led her to decide to redshirt instead. Reiss said that she is grateful for the opportunity to play a fourth season as well as get her masters degree due to this fifth year in school.

“It [redshirting] is going to be completely different for other people, but for me it’s like I get my masters degree out of this,” Reiss said. “I honestly never thought I was going to get my masters degree. I thought I was going to be done with school and start the real world life but I’m actually happy that I’m getting my master’s degree now. So the fact that I can do my last year [of competing] on top of getting my masters is a win-win.”

Redshirt senior thrower Austin Hogan was also not planning on redshirting when he did. His sophomore year, after the death of his throwing coach, Hogan said he decided to redshirt in order to process the loss and wait for the university to find another coach.

“I think the way it worked out, it worked out pretty well. I couldn’t have known that. If my coach passing wasn’t the case, then I think, going back, I would’ve redshirted my freshman year,” Hogan said. “But I think I was just a little arrogant my freshman year. I always planned on redshirting some year, but I just wanted to get in the swing of things and wanted to compete right away. I didn’t want to redshirt. But I was just a little too eager, but I don’t think it harmed me in any way to redshirt my sophomore year.”

Even though they were redshirted, both Hogan and Whitaker were able to compete unattached during their first redshirt season. According to Young, sports that allow individual competitors such as wrestling, track and field and swimming and diving, also allow redshirted athletes to compete unattached. This means that an athlete can compete, but only if they aren’t receiving any funding or support from the university for those unattached competitions. The athlete cannot wear the university’s uniform, be coached by its coaches, trained by its athletic trainers or travel with their teammates. Whitaker said that competing unattached during his first season allowed him to wrestle starters from other teams, which ultimately prepared him for his first year of attached competition.

While many athletes choose to use all four seasons of their eligibility after redshirting, according to Cox, they are not required to do so. For some athletes, competing in their fourth season might not fit with their academic timeline, so they choose to graduate and move on instead of extending an extra semester or year to participate. However, Reiss encourages athletes who have the opportunity to redshirt to do so.

“But being able to play your sport for one more year, you know a lot of people would die to do that again. Because once you’re done, you’re done. So being able to prolong it and push it back for one more year, it’s kind of a nice benefit on my part,” Reiss said. “If you had the opportunity, I would totally do it. Take advantage of it and enjoy it while it lasts because it goes by fast. My four years went by fast, and my fifth year has gone even faster.”

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Redshirt Rules 101

With spring sports such as baseball, softball, lacrosse and track starting soon, this is a good time to review the rules if your athlete is considering a redshirt season.

NCAA Division I and II

If an athlete enters a contest (at the varsity or JV level), even if only for one or two minutes or for one or two plays, that athlete will be using one of their four seasons of college eligibility.

Once that happens, their only opportunity to get this season “over again” will be if they suffer a season-ending injury or illness before the midpoint of the season and have not exceeded the limit on the number of games played or dates of competition for their sport.

NCAA Division III

To redshirt at the NCAA Division III level, the athlete must completely remove themselves from the team before the first game or contest of the season. The D3 rules charge a “season of participation” if an athlete is practicing with their team once the season begins, even if the athlete never appears in a game for their team during the season.

NJCAA and CCCAA

Same as NCAA Division I and II

The NAIA only charges an athlete with a season of competition if the athlete appears in more than 20 percent of the maximum number of contests or dates of competition in their sport. However, any participation in NAIA-approved postseason will count as a season used.

Do you have questions about redshirting or a medical redshirt?

Schedule a confidential E ligibility Issues Consult , call us at 913-766-1235 or send an email to [email protected].

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Do Redshirt Freshmen Travel With the Team? Exploring the Benefits and Challenges

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

A redshirt freshman is a student-athlete who has been recruited to play for a college or university sports team but does not participate in any games during their first year. The purpose of this status is to allow the student time to adjust to college life and practice with the team without having to compete at the collegiate level. This raises the question of whether or not these students should be allowed to travel with the team, and if so, what are the logistics and policies behind it? In this article, we will explore the issue of allowing redshirt freshman to travel with the team and consider the benefits and challenges associated with it.

Interview with Redshirt Freshman

To gain insight into the experience of being a redshirt freshman traveling with the team, we interviewed a former redshirt freshman who is now a senior on the team. They shared that the experience was both beneficial and challenging. On the one hand, they were able to observe and learn from the upperclassmen and gain valuable insight into the game through travel. On the other hand, the lack of playing time and limited opportunities to contribute to the team made the experience difficult. They also found it difficult to be away from home and missing out on important experiences with their friends and family.

Logistics and Policies

When considering whether or not to allow redshirt freshman to travel with the team, coaches, athletic directors, and school administrators must take into account a variety of factors. These include the size of the team, the financial resources available, and the safety and security measures that must be taken when traveling. Ultimately, the decision is up to each individual school and depends on the specific circumstances of the team and the resources available.

In addition, many schools have policies in place regarding the number of players who can travel with the team. This helps ensure that the team remains within its budget and that all student-athletes have an equal opportunity to participate in any given trip. For example, some schools may limit the number of redshirt freshman who can travel with the team, while others may require them to pay their own way.

Comparison of Travel Experiences

The experience of traveling with the team as a redshirt freshman differs from that of other student-athletes on the team. As a redshirt freshman, you are not eligible to play in any games, which means you don’t have the same opportunities to contribute to the team or bond with your teammates. However, you still get to experience the thrill of traveling with the team, attend team meetings, and observe practices and games.

Redshirt freshman may also be subject to different rules and regulations when it comes to travel. For example, some schools may require redshirt freshman to stay in separate accommodations from the rest of the team, or may limit their participation in certain activities. These policies help ensure that redshirt freshman remain focused on their academic and athletic goals and do not become too distracted by the social aspects of traveling with the team.

Benefits of Allowing Redshirt Freshman to Travel

There are several benefits to allowing redshirt freshman to travel with the team. First, it gives them the opportunity to acclimate to college life and become familiar with the demands of collegiate athletics. It also allows them to form relationships with their teammates and build camaraderie. Finally, it provides them with the chance to observe and learn from the upperclassmen, which can be invaluable in preparing them for the upcoming season.

In addition, allowing redshirt freshmen to travel with the team can provide them with invaluable exposure to potential future employers. For example, if the team plays in a high-profile tournament or event, redshirt freshman may have the opportunity to make connections with scouts and recruiters who could potentially offer them employment after graduation.

University Budgeting for Redshirt Freshman Travel

Universities must take into consideration the cost associated with allowing redshirt freshman to travel with the team. Depending on the school, the expenses can range from transportation and lodging to meals and other incidentals. Schools typically cover these expenses through the team’s budget or through fundraising efforts. Additionally, some schools may require redshirt freshman to pay for their own expenses, although this is rare.

Allowing redshirt freshman to travel with the team can be beneficial in a variety of ways. It provides them with the opportunity to acclimate to college life and form relationships with their teammates, as well as to gain valuable insight into the game through observation and learning from the upperclassmen. It also gives them the chance to make connections with potential employers and receive valuable exposure. While there are challenges associated with allowing redshirt freshman to travel, such as budgeting and logistical considerations, the benefits far outweigh the costs.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Home » Guide » Do redshirts travel with team?

Do redshirts travel with team?

What is a redshirt.

A redshirt is a student athlete who participates in a sport at the collegiate level and does not compete in games during the season. Redshirts are typically freshmen who are not ready to compete at the varsity level, or upperclassmen who are recovering from an injury. The purpose of redshirting is to give student athletes a chance to develop their skills and build strength to compete on the varsity level in the future.

Do Redshirts Travel With the Team?

The answer to this question depends on the team and the sport. Generally, redshirts do travel with the team to away games and tournaments. Traveling with the team provides redshirts with the opportunity to observe and learn from the varsity players. It also gives redshirts a chance to bond with the team and become part of the team culture.

NCAA Regulations

In the NCAA, Division I schools are allowed to provide travel and related expenses for up to 104 student athletes for away-game travel. This includes redshirts. Division II schools have a limit of 70 student athletes and Division III schools have a limit of 40 student athletes.

Benefits of Traveling with the Team

Traveling with the team provides redshirts with many benefits. Redshirts will be able to observe and learn from the varsity players, which can help them develop their skills and become better players. Traveling with the team also gives redshirts the chance to bond with the team and learn how to work together as a unit.

Drawbacks of Traveling with the Team

There are some drawbacks to traveling with the team. Redshirts may not get as much individual attention from the coaching staff while they are on the road, since the focus is on the varsity players. Additionally, if the team is traveling by plane, redshirts may have to pay for their own tickets and other expenses.

Redshirt Eligibility for Away Games

In order for a redshirt to be eligible to travel with the team to away games, they must meet certain criteria. Generally, redshirts must be in good academic standing and must have a minimum GPA of 2.0. Additionally, redshirts must be in good physical condition and must display good sportsmanship and team spirit.

Traveling with the Team vs. Staying Home

Redshirts have the option to either travel with the team or stay home when the team is playing away games. For those who choose to travel with the team, there are many benefits, such as the opportunity to observe and learn from the varsity players. Those who choose to stay home will not have these benefits, but they may have more time to focus on their studies and other activities.

Team Travel Policies

Most teams have specific policies in place when it comes to traveling with the team. These policies may include requirements such as a minimum GPA, good physical condition, and good sportsmanship. Additionally, teams may have policies in place regarding the costs associated with traveling with the team, such as plane tickets and hotel rooms.

Redshirt Travel Team

Some teams have a separate travel team for redshirts. This travel team is made up of redshirts who are allowed to travel with the team to away games. The purpose of the travel team is to give redshirts the opportunity to observe and learn from the varsity players, while also providing them with a chance to bond with the team.

In conclusion, redshirts do travel with the team to away games and tournaments. This provides redshirts with many benefits, such as the opportunity to observe and learn from the varsity players and to bond with the team. However, there are some drawbacks to traveling with the team, such as the lack of individual attention from the coaching staff and the potential cost of plane tickets and other expenses. Redshirts must meet certain criteria to be eligible to travel with the team and teams usually have specific policies in place regarding travel expenses and eligibility. Some teams also have a separate travel team for redshirts.

Oregon State mailbag: What happened with the women’s basketball exodus, what to do with a Martinez jersey?

• Updated: Apr. 12, 2024, 5:15 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 12, 2024, 11:50 a.m.

Oregon State players watch from the bench during the third quarter of an Elite Eight round college basketball game against South Carolina during the NCAA Tournament, Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Albany, N.Y. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer) AP AP

• Nick Daschel | The Oregonian/OregonLive

Another edition of Oregon State mailbag, where readers ask questions or comment about Oregon State athletics, and The Oregonian/OregonLive’s Nick Daschel provides a response. Sorry we couldn’t get to all the questions, but we took a stab at a bunch.

As an avid Beaver fan, I’m wondering what went wrong with Coach Rueck’s approach with the leaving players. It can’t all be about NIL$. Apparently, all the loyalty and “my best teammates” talk was covering up simmering problems. Any ideas? It’s been a terrible year for being a Beaver supporter and it’s getting worse by the day! – Ron S

I’ve received dozens of emails on this subject during the past week. Of course, I’ve asked to talk to Rueck about the events of the past two weeks. The conversation will happen at some point, but dust needs to settle as there’s at least one more transfer portal move coming, in addition to developing a plan to rebuild the roster. Name, image and likeness (NIL) is definitely a factor. I’m told numerous OSU-related NIL offers were offered to players since the Elite Eight run ended. It might have been too little, too late, as clearly players and their camps (family, friends, etc.) were listening to outsiders; a few had their minds made up before the plane returned from the Elite Eight.

Just as significant is the move to the West Coast Conference for the next two seasons. Apparently, several players believe they signed up for Power 5 competition by enrolling at OSU. The WCC isn’t that. A strong nonconference schedule can offset a lot of that, but apparently, it wasn’t enough. Lack of exposure and pro basketball opportunities are another factor. (Though as someone pointed out to me, Courtney Vandersloot heads into her 14th year in the WNBA, and somehow she was found despite playing at little ol’ Gonzaga). There’s likely another factor or two at play as well. This is a developing story. Let it play out.

I’m a 1970 graduate who was a varsity football manager in 1968,69,70 and am just sick over the breakup of the PAC 12. Having watched the women’s team play so well this year I am so upset with this transfer portal situation, do you think these girls would have stayed if the Beavers were not forced to move to the West Coast Conference? – TJ

I do not think seven players (and perhaps counting) would have left if the Pac-12 remained intact. A couple, sure.

If student-athletes are legally classified as employees, would non-compete agreements be enforceable? That is, preventing a player from going to a competing school for a year or two? A larger question, are non-competes applicable to coaches? I realize that California doesn’t allow non-competes, so this issue is a patchwork depending on state law. Maybe the NCAA has rules covering this issue. — Jeffrey W

That’s a legal question and out of my wheelhouse. I’ll say this. First, we’re quite a way from classifying athletes as employees. Second, if it happens, non-competes are unlikely. Who’s going to be the first to do that? It would put that school at a competitive disadvantage. Same goes with coaches. What coach is going to sign a non-compete if colleagues aren’t tethered to such a clause? Perhaps an attorney with knowledge in this space can email me with insight.

What do I do with my Dame jersey, Nick? – Bennett

I hear Corvallis Goodwill has a section for those looking to abandon their Beaver gear.

Any guesses on when next year’s independent baseball schedule will be released? And what does your gut instincts tell you about baseball being able to continue as is, or if they will have a mass transfer issue like football and bball? -- @FantasyGuru91

I spoke with athletic director Scott Barnes on Thursday, the baseball schedule among other questions. My sense is you won’t see a full schedule any time soon. Part of it is what Barnes calls “baseball’s culture … it’s sort of a handshake deal. Sign the contract just before the season.” Barnes said they have “several contracts in for signatures … I like the progress, and I think we’ll be in good shape.” Barnes didn’t reveal any series that have been locked up, other than to say it’ll be a national schedule that will include games and/or series against “a handful” of current Pac-12 schools.

Never been so broken hearted. Tragic. We feel it’s just easier to detach. After an Elite 8 run now mass exodus. Was initially hoping it was just Talia (von Oelhoffen) as we suspected perhaps she wasn’t the easiest for locker room chemistry. Then bam, domino affect. No question, these kids didn’t sign up to play in the WCC. But even then...Tragic. Feel for Scott immensely. We’re out. – Criss D

During the past week, I’ve received many emails and Twitter (X) comments stating that they’re finished with college sports and Beaver fandom. I hear you. Step away for a while if you’d like. But check back at some point. The landscape is shifting so rapidly, I wouldn’t write off Oregon State as a player just yet.

Is there any talk of limiting this NIL money? Or at least changing the transfer rules. College athletes have it better than pros since they can move to any team at any time. When will the powers that be make sense of all this? – Cirello

Limiting NIL money? Hahahahahahaha. If anything, it’s moving in the other direction. Changing transfer rules? Perhaps. But a better bet is more relaxation. The NCAA and schools are fearful of additional litigation that could end with 10 and 11-figure settlements.

Everything for the “suits” and top athletes has become transactional. The paid athletes should not be allowed to take up space on these campuses. Coaches should be paid no more, no less than college teachers and professors. Agents should be banned. NCAA should be run by university presidents who should be paid expenses and a modest stipend. – Chris P

Like the previous question, good luck with that. America is a free market system. It frowns on putting salary caps on things like coaches’ salaries. I’m not even sure where to begin with your comment about banning “paid” athletes from being on campus.

The offense is supposed to be easy to grasp. Will Coach Gunderson give an interview regarding the offense scheme? And how is his perception of quarterbacks and progress of their abilities. – Scott G

Gunderson, Oregon State’s offensive coordinator, spoke earlier during spring practice and prior to the spring . I suspect we’ll hear from Gunderson next week as spring wraps up. Regardless of offense, this spring figured to be clunky for quarterback play with two of the top three starting candidates having transferred into the program in January.

Now the P12 suit is settled, where does this go? I know the rest is imploding behind us. ACC mess. Baseball is playing an independent schedule, why couldn’t women’s basketball too? I fear by the time this bottoms out OSU will be far behind -- @WebGuy223

It’s uncharted waters for Oregon State, and I won’t pretend to claim it’s going to end well for the school. I have no idea. All I know is how things look today will not be the same in March 2025. More fallout in the Power 4s is a certainty. It may or may not benefit OSU. As for women’s basketball playing an independent schedule, that’s a non-starter. Schools need an avenue to qualify for the NCAA Tournament, and conference play is the only way to do it. Not to mention scheduling games in January and February. Every Division I school – including Notre Dame – is involved in conference play once the calendar turns to January.

Can you explain how NIL actually works, using the Damien Martinez case as an example? When we hear dollar amounts bandied about, how long of a time are those paid out over? -- @halverbk

We’re a half-hour TV show here, so not enough time to explain it all. At its core, anyone can offer an athlete an NIL deal. The athlete does the work – an endorsement, an appearance, etc. – and gets paid. Oregon State has a page on its athletics website devoted to NIL. At The Wood Shop , people can click on a specific athlete to create an NIL opportunity. Most athletes get their NIL deals through Oregon State’s collective, Dam Nation, like Martinez. It came up with several commercial opportunities for Martinez, who is in turn paid quarterly throughout the year.

What are your feelings on loyalty, coaches and running backs? -- @APIdeclare

Loyalty is gone in college athletics. Coaches coach until they leave for another place to coach. Running backs have a short shelf life.

If you gift a kid a car, and he gets a DUI, are you legally liable? -- @red_flag_raised

As is the case above, I’m not a lawyer. But practically speaking, if you gift someone a car, the title goes into the recipient’s name. You’re not liable.

I wonder how the O will feel when I put billable hours on my expenses.

How’s the competitive fire between (Travis) Bazzana and (Gavin) Turley? -- @Distinct

From Joe Freeman, who covers OSU baseball for The Oregonian/OregonLive: Travis Bazzana and Gavin Turley have been relatively close since Turley arrived in Corvallis before the 2023 season. Bazzana was looking to spread his wings as a leader and the pair quickly bonded over their shared passion for baseball and a quest to reach the Major Leagues. They used to go on hikes together in the summer/fall of 2022, because Turley is an outdoorsy guy and Bazzana wanted to introduce his new buddy to the beauty of Oregon. But with baseball, they have a drastically different approach to hitting. Bazzana wants every piece of analytics and information he can get his hands on, while Turley likes to keep things simple (you can read more about the differences in this feature on Bazzana’s motivation and this story about Turley’s slump-busting May a year ago). So their competitive fire, as you put it, is quite different. But they both have a burning desire to be the best, lead Oregon State to a national championship and fulfill their Major League dreams.

You need to create a NIL fan survival kit. Make it an orange and black lunch pail with a bottle of Oregon State Built Not Bought Vodka in it. When you need a reminder of why you’re an Oregon State fan pull out the lunch pail and have a drink. -- @BadDugr

Or maybe go for a walk. Get off social media for a while. Step away from the message boards. It’s not healthy to wallow in all the bad news, even as my job requires that I continue to report it.

Why should fans donate to any NIL fund at this point for Oregon State? It is obvious that the NIL donations are becoming a huge waste of money. -- @FromTheClods

Don’t get me started. My opinion on money wasted in college athletics doesn’t matter, however. What is clear is that NIL is here to stay. If Oregon State doesn’t stay in the game, prepare to dig its grave.

Gabarri Johnson. Status report? – Jeff S

The redshirt freshman quarterback transfer from Missouri began taking part in spring practices when the team returned from spring break last week. Johnson is doing a little more each practice. If he continues to progress, I suspect you’ll see a little of him during the April 20 spring game.

I don’t know why but the “agents” and “agency” for Damien and a host of other college athletes smell fishy (odd poorly put together website, young “hustle” driven agents with corny fake looking photos, based out of a random building in Hialeah, etc.) -- @ShortKingPhil

It’s like a lot of “commission sales” type businesses. There are some very good and ethical agents, others who ooze sleaze from every pore in their skin, and many in the middle. Until the NCAA and colleges develop parameters to qualify agents, the shameless, unethical hustlers will continue.

Nick Daschel covers Oregon State athletics, in particular football and basketball, and can be reached at 360-607-4824, [email protected] or @nickdaschel .

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Cornerback DJ McKinney making mark in first…

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Cornerback DJ McKinney making mark in first spring with CU Buffs

Throughout the 2023 season, DJ McKinney wasn’t associated with the Colorado football program, but he also couldn’t avoid hearing about it.

“On social media, you open up your phone, that’s really the first thing you see about football: Colorado, Colorado,” said McKinney, who spent the past two seasons at Oklahoma State.

Now, McKinney is looking to do his part to help the Buffaloes win, after transferring this winter.

“Looking back at it, I really never thought I would see myself being a part of something like this,” he said. “I’m glad I’m here now.

“There was always talk about Coach Prime, the players at Colorado and everything.”

As a cornerback, McKinney jumped at the chance to learn from Coach Prime, CU’s head coach Deion Sanders, who is a Hall of Fame corner and considered by many as the best to play the position.

“I’m really, like, a big experience and knowledge guy, so having him as a coach is a great experience,” McKinney said. “All the knowledge he’s pouring into me, I’m just trying to take it and then apply it to the field.”

The 6-foot-2, 190-pound McKinney has an exceptional skill set of his own and gained valuable experience at Oklahoma State. He redshirted in 2022, playing four games that season. This past year, as a redshirt freshman, he wasn’t a starter, but played in all 14 games for the Cowboys, and was on the field for 596 defensive snaps.

McKinney led all OSU cornerbacks with 38 tackles in 2023, while also posting five pass breakups. His pass coverage grade (70.2) at Pro Football Focus was second among all OSU defensive backs.

“I would just say my coaches at Oklahoma State, they were just preparing me to make sure I was doing the right thing,” he said. “Having me watching the right film. They actually taught me how to watch film the proper way. So I’ve just been applying that to my game here.”

McKinney is also grateful for the on-field experience he got in Stillwater.

“It taught me how to adapt to certain things, because we played a different type of style than we do here,” he said. “I took that and I’m just adding here. We played more off (coverage) back at Oklahoma State, so now I’m working on my press man. Really just making me a versatile corner.”

Through the first half of spring practices, McKinney has been one of the more impressive additions to the team, as he’s playing in a starting role while learning not only from Sanders, but from cornerbacks coach Kevin Mathis, who played 10 years in the NFL.

“He’s been really surprising, man,” Mathis said. “The way he reacts, the way he understands and wants to be coached, because he understands he’s got a ways to go, but he’s able to come in and every day give us everything he’s got.

“We knew we were getting a player but we didn’t know we was getting a leader, also, off the field. And he’s doing a good job of communicating on the field.”

McKinney said he’s looked at fellow cornerback Travis Hunter and senior safety Shilo Sanders as leaders, but has tried to do his part, as well.

“Like as soon as I got here, I noticed who were the leaders, so I just wanted to see how they lead the team, and play my role and also be a leader,” he said.

Although it’s only been a few months, McKinney said it’s been a great experience at CU, especially learning from Coach Prime.

“I love everything about it,” he said. “I love mountains. I love the coaches. I love my teammates. Just ready to dive into the culture here.

“Why not come to Colorado if I’m a DB or a corner and go get coached by Coach Prime?”

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SMU suspends football player accused in multivehicle hit-and-run involving Rashee Rice

Theodore “teddy” knox faces one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury, police said..

By Jamie Landers , Julia James and Aria Jones

6:09 PM on Apr 11, 2024 CDT

A Southern Methodist University football player has been suspended from the team after the school learned he is one of two people facing charges in connection with a high-speed hit-and-run crash last month in Dallas , university officials confirmed Thursday.

Dallas police said Wednesday that SMU cornerback Theodore “Teddy” Knox and Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice are suspected of being the drivers of two high-end sports cars that caused the March 30 collision. At least four people were injured and a half-dozen vehicles were damaged.

Knox, 21, and Rice, 23, each face one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury, police said. Rice turned himself into Glenn Heights authorities Thursday, Dallas police said. The department said just before 9 p.m. that Knox was not in custody.

“SMU takes these allegations seriously,” university officials said in a written statement sent to The Dallas Morning News , adding that federal student privacy laws prevent the school from providing details involving student disciplinary proceedings.

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Related: Rashee Rice, Kansas City Chiefs WR, surrenders after Dallas hit-and-run crash

Dallas-based attorney Deandra Grant confirmed to The News on Thursday she is representing Knox.

“We have cooperated fully with law enforcement,” Grant said via email. “Other than that, we have no further comment at this time.”

Rice’s attorney, state Sen. Royce West, D-Dallas, said Thursday he had no comment on Rice’s surrender.

Kristin Lowman, a Dallas police spokeswoman, has said the drivers of a Chevrolet Corvette and a Lamborghini Urus were speeding about 6:20 p.m. in the 6600 block of North Central Expressway , between Lovers Lane and University Boulevard, where each lost control. The Lamborghini traveled onto the shoulder and “hit the center median wall, causing a chain reaction collision involving four other vehicles.”

Footage obtained by The News shows the Corvette and Lamborghini trying to pass cars in the left lane before slamming into a white sedan and colliding with multiple vehicles across several lanes of traffic. West said at a news conference last week that the former Richland High School and SMU star told police he was driving the Lamborghini.

Related: Kansas City Chiefs’ Rashee Rice involved in Dallas hit-and-run crash. Here’s what we know

After the crash, Rice and four other men were seen on video leaving the scene. Police have said the men didn’t stop to see if anyone needed medical attention or provide any of their information.

Police said the passengers will not face charges.

Motorists involved in crashes that result or are “reasonably likely” to result in injury or death must stop at or near the scene or return to the scene and determine whether a person is involved or needs aid, according to Texas law . They also must remain near the crash until information and aid has been given.

A motorist who doesn’t comply with the law can face up to five years of prison or one year in jail and be fined up to $5,000. If the crash results in serious bodily injury, the offense is a third-degree felony, and if it results in death, it’s a second-degree felony, the law states.

Defense attorney and former prosecutor Toby Shook said it’s not uncommon for someone to face the serious bodily injury charge if they leave the scene of a crash — without leaving any identification — where there was an injury, serious injury or death. The number of counts reflects the number of vehicles involved in the crash.

“I’ve had clients charged with that and the accident’s not their fault sometimes, but they may hit someone,” said Shook, who isn’t involved in Rice or Knox’s cases.

The aggravated assault charge, which is the most serious of the charges, isn’t as common, Shook said. Aggravated assault counts are more common in situations where someone intentionally attacks or threatens another with a weapon, he said. However, Shook said the charge can also be brought for “reckless intent.”

At least three of the victims of the crash have retained legal counsel, lawyers have said.

Related: 5 things to know about Teddy Knox, SMU player accused in hit-and-run involving Rashee Rice

Rice and Knox were teammates while playing at SMU in 2022.

Knox is a redshirt sophomore. He is originally from Louisiana but spent his last two high school football seasons playing in The Woodlands, near Houston.

As a three-star wide receiver recruit out of high school, Knox spent his freshman season with Mississippi State University in 2021. He played in three games before being redshirted. He transferred to SMU before the 2022 season.

Knox played in 23 games for the Mustangs over the next two seasons, serving mostly on special teams where he made four tackles.

Rice attended SMU from 2019 to 2022, becoming one of the best wide receivers in program history. He was drafted by the Chiefs in 2023 and won a Super Bowl title with the team in February.

Staff writer Zaeem Shaikh and digital sports producer R.J. Coyle contributed to this report.

Jamie Landers , Breaking News Reporter . Jamie Landers is a breaking news reporter at The Dallas Morning News. She is a graduate of The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication in Phoenix, where she studied journalism and political science. Jamie previously reported for The Arizona Republic and Arizona PBS.

Julia James , Breaking News Reporter . Julia is a breaking news reporter with the Dallas Morning News. She is a Louisiana native and a graduate of the University of Mississippi where she studied journalism and public policy. She previously covered education for Mississippi Today in Jackson, Miss.

Aria Jones , Breaking news reporter . Aria writes about breaking news. She is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and Dallas College. Aria has interned at the Austin American-Statesman, the Texas Tribune and the El Paso Times.

If a 44-story tower can go for $3.5 million in St. Louis, what does that say about D-FW?

Rhett miller and the old 97′s took dallas stories and made them american classics, new 1,100-plus luxury home community planned for north fort worth, planners hope grant will fuel 50 new buses for world cup, try this plano bangladeshi-fusion pizza shop for bengali new year in d-fw.

Once a five-star recruit, Xavier Thomas navigated depression to get back on NFL draft path

Xavier Thomas stepped off the scale, and the number staring back at him flashed “298.” 

For a Division I football player, that number might be typical. For an edge rusher who stands at 6-foot-2 and was a freshman All-American a year before winning the 2018 national championship with the Clemson Tigers , it was a problem. 

The isolation everyone experienced during the coronavirus pandemic compelled Thomas to isolate himself further. Thomas was 50 pounds overweight. That fueled disappointment that descended into depression. The No. 3 recruit in the Class of 2018 – two spots ahead of the Dallas Cowboys’ Micah Parsons and behind only decorated quarterbacks Trevor Lawrence and Justin Fields – wanted to quit football. In the low moments, he asked himself: What happened to the plan of obtaining his degree in three years so he could enter the NFL draft once he was eligible? 

They took different paths, but Thomas will finally join Parsons – whom Thomas called “one of his best friends” – in the NFL ranks later this month. He is realistic enough to know he won’t be a first-round selection, yet confident enough to compare his game to that of Parsons. And in meeting with teams during the pre-draft process, Thomas has taken advantage of the chance to tell his story – something he is unapologetic about in an effort to help others who are struggling with their mental health. 

“If anything, it brings a positive light on who I am as a person and things I’ve persevered through,” Thomas told USA TODAY Sports.

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

Pandemic brings Xavier Thomas to low point at Clemson

Tameka Thomas is not a fan of football. When her son, Xavier, was a child, she tolerated the violence so long as he kept good grades. She admits now she tried to push him toward baseball, another sport in which he showed promise. Xavier turned down the exhaustive travel schedule that comes with travel baseball.

“He would never let anything interfere with football,” Tameka told USA TODAY Sports. 

Which is why she first realized something wasn’t right with Xavier “when he was not really focused on football.” 

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the Clemson football program to spread out. Thomas retreated to two of his passions – video games and sweets. He tried to assure his parents that he was OK, Tameka said. They didn't want to force an uncomfortable conversation on him; he’s not the type of person who will speak unless he wants to. But they sensed an uncommon distance.

“Back then, when I was dealing with that, I tried to keep it bottled in, keep it to myself and be a tough guy and have a tough act,” Thomas said. “Which is a stigma we have with men nowadays – even with women. We got people who deal with a lot of things.” 

Thomas was diagnosed with COVID-19 during the early stages of the pandemic and self-isolated. The weight started coming on then and didn't stop after his recovery. He remained disconnected from the Tigers even as team activities resumed.

“Which is why I was almost ready to quit football, because I allowed myself to get down to that type of level for myself,” Thomas said.

Thomas credited his teammates for being supportive but said he leaned on two people specifically: Tameka and Tigers head coach Dabo Swinney. 

“I’m super proud of ‘XT’ because he got to a place a lot of people don’t recover from,” Swinney said in a statement to USA TODAY Sports. “He was in a very dark place. But what he did – and it’s so important – is he communicated and he sought out help, and he had the courage to let people know what he was struggling with. 

“Every time I see him, I think about the dark time that he was in, where he was. To see him now, it’s just amazing. It’s such a great example of why it’s so important that we provide opportunities and resources for mental health, and that we aren’t ashamed to express ourselves when we get in places that are dark."

Tameka has the same questions others do when it comes to exploring that part of Xavier’s life. How did she help him? She hasn’t asked her son because she doesn’t want to reminisce about the past.

“I’ll be mindful of things,” she says now. 

Tameka remembers one conversation. Xavier had mentioned again he was finished with football. She told Xavier he had to admit that to himself – if that was the truth. 

“But if you’re not, don’t try to slip under the rug something you’re dealing with and you regret this later on in life,” Tameka said. “I don’t know what I did, exactly. I just stayed on him.” 

Tameka herself went to counseling during that time to help. She encouraged her son to go and believes in the power of talking it out. Tameka prayed, too.

“He got low,” Tameka said, “but it didn’t break him – because he got up on his own.” 

Xavier Thomas helps himself by helping others

Thomas was an immediate contributor during the Tigers’ 2018 national championship and had a half-sack in the title game against Alabama. Coming off a USA TODAY Freshman All-America selection, Thomas ended his sophomore year by earning third-team All-ACC honors. 

The plan was coming together. 

Even though Xavier always carried himself humbly, “he went through a moment of being a diva his sophomore year,” Tameka said. Then the pandemic hit, and Thomas had to start his personal rebuilding process. Despite his struggles in 2020, he played seven games after intending to take a redshirt season. In 2021, he returned to third-team All-ACC form.

The NCAA blanket waiver for an additional year of eligibility due to COVID-19 made 2022 the make-or-break campaign for Thomas. But two weeks before the season, after Thomas said he worked himself into the best shape of his life, he broke his foot and nearly missed the entire year, managing to return for three games. 

Thomas had grown up in the church and sang in the choir. In 2021, he devoted himself to Christianity and formed a relationship with God, Thomas said. Because of what he went through in 2020 and his newfound piety, he was able to navigate the first significant injury of his career. He was granted a sixth year of eligibility and started 11 games last season and finished with a team-high 21 quarterback pressures. 

Thomas “put the work in to come back,” Swinney said.

“Because there was a time where I wasn’t sure if he was going to play football again. And now look at him,” Swinney said. “He’s a young man that’s in total control of his life and just has great confidence and spirit. He’s come through the other side.” 

Off the field, Thomas wants to be an inspiration to others by highlighting the importance of discussing feelings.

“Not even just bad things,” Thomas said. “Just people in the world go through things in life. No matter how far you get knocked down or you feel that you’re down and out, you can always get back up.” 

Clemson fans reached out on social media to say that his message resonated with them.

"I think he’s a great example to so many people – known and unknown – that have dealt with some type of mental health situation," Swinney said. "The fact that he’s willing to use his platform to speak out on that, I know it sheds a great light on a real problem, but also, I know, encourages a lot of people that need it."

Being open about his past is “really easy” for Thomas. His father, Ezra Thomas, has served two lengthy jail stints during Xavier’s lifetime. Tameka said Ezra always told Xavier to not hide from mistakes. Xavier applied the message in his own way.

“He’s helping himself by helping somebody else,” Tameka said. 

Xavier Thomas motivated by Micah Parsons' success

While Thomas did not finish his Clemson football career in three years, he completed his degree in criminal justice during that time. He also obtained a master’s degree in athletic leadership. 

The additional three years at Clemson – double the amount of time he intended – taught Xavier to be more focused, Tameka said.

But Thomas still paid attention to what his former recruiting class was up to, including his teammates at IMG Academy in 2018. Nolan Smith of the Philadelphia Eagles is also a close friend, and Thomas also played alongside Andre Cisco (Jacksonville Jaguars), Evan Neal (New York Giants) and Greg Newsome II (Cleveland Browns). 

People ask Thomas if players his age already having professional success, while he dealt with hardship, bothers him. It doesn’t. He learned that timing is different for everyone and that comparison is an unfruitful exercise. 

“It motivated me a lot, just seeing my guys have success,” he said.  

The foremost example Thomas can look to is Parsons, the 2021 Defensive Rookie of the Year and two-time All-Pro. The two met on the recruiting circuit and attended camps together more than six years ago. 

“We always competed against each other, but we always had the same abilities in regards to how he played his position and how I played mine,” Thomas said. 

They frequently talked trash then and “seeing the things he does in the NFL, I can easily translate that in my game,” Thomas said. The feedback he has received from teams is that he will be picked as early as the third round and as late as the fifth. He said his experience in 2020 hasn’t been brought up negatively by any team. 

“Whatever organization that does draft me, I just want that fan base to know that they’re getting a relentless player, and a player that’s going to help them win games,” Thomas said. “… They're going to love me, whichever organization chooses me.”