The NCAA is considering a major rule change that could alter the future of college athletics. The proposed adjustment would extend athletes’ eligibility from four years to five, allowing student-athletes an extra year of competition. Set for discussion in early 2025, this new standard would make five-year eligibility the norm in college sports.
The potential move has ignited strong reactions from coaches, players, and fans alike, raising concerns over the impact it might have on college basketball and other sports. The decision could reshape the structure of collegiate athletics nationwide.
New NCAA Rule Change Could Reshape College Sports Forever
A pivotal court ruling could determine the future of college football, as Rutgers awaits a decision in the eligibility case of Jett Elad, a high-profile transfer whose legal battle with the NCAA has drawn national attention.
Since joining Rutgers and participating in spring practices, Elad has exceeded expectations, according to head coach Greg Schiano, who said the safety is “everything we could have wanted and more.”
This shit has gotten out of control. We are gonna have guys sticking around til 30 years old soon.
Not sure who was in favor of all this, but college basketball has never been more of a shit show than it is right now. https://t.co/reHHtcMM8C
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) April 18, 2025
Schiano added that if Elad is sidelined this fall, the Scarlet Knights would lose “a starting level safety,” and the athlete would miss an opportunity to showcase his skills to professional scouts.
“Schiano believed Elad has the potential to play in the NFL,” court records note.
During Wednesday’s hearing in Trenton, U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi said a ruling would be delivered soon, calling the matter “of an expedited nature.” Both Elad and NCAA attorneys were instructed to submit their proposed findings of fact by 5 p.m.
Tuesday. Until then, Elad remains eligible for spring camp under a temporary restraining order extended through April 28 — two days after Rutgers’ spring game.
During cross-examination, defense attorney Jason Marino stated that Jett Elad’s NIL deal is worth approximately $650,000, with a $550,000 base and an added $100,000 bonus if he earns first-team All-Big Ten honors.
“The NCAA’s decision would deprive Elad of a chance to play for ‘the coach of his dreams’ while earning a ‘half-million dollar contract,’” Marino said.
KEEP READING: ‘End the Portal’: Frustrations Mount Against Misuse of NIL As Truth Behind Denzel Aberdeen and Xaivian Lee Moves Emerge
Schiano testified the NIL package reflects Elad’s “great value at a position of need” and “multi-positional value,” citing evaluations by Rutgers’ NIL staff based on current transfer market trends.
A ruling could set a precedent with far-reaching implications for college athletics.
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