In the world of college football, the term redshirt often pops up in conversations among coaches, players, and fans. But what does it actually mean? Is it a strategy, a status, or simply a way to buy time for athletes? Understanding what redshirting entails—and its implications for a college football player—can offer fascinating insights into the complexities of college athletics and long-term player development.
What Is a Redshirt in College Football?
At its core, redshirting is a practice that allows a student-athlete to extend their period of eligibility by not participating in competition for an entire academic year. Typically, athletes are awarded four years of competition within five academic years. The one year they don’t participate in games is known as the redshirt year.
This concept is not unique to football, but it is especially significant in this sport because of the physical demands and competitiveness involved. By redshirting, athletes can have time to develop physically, mentally, and academically without losing a year of playing eligibility. The name “redshirt” dates back to the color of the practice jerseys worn by these players to differentiate them from active starters.
Types of Redshirting
There are several types of redshirting, each with its own set of rules and circumstances. Here’s a breakdown:
- Standard Redshirt: A player voluntarily does not participate in any competitions during a full academic year to preserve a season of eligibility.
- Medical Redshirt: Also known as a “medical hardship waiver,” this allows players who are injured early in the season to retain that year of eligibility.
- Academic Redshirt: Players who do not meet the NCAA’s academic requirements for freshman eligibility may be given a year to improve their academics before participating.
The NCAA’s 4-Game Redshirt Rule
In 2018, the NCAA announced a major rule change that altered how redshirting works. Under the new rule, players can now participate in up to four games per season without losing their redshirt status. This development offered both flexibility and strategic options for coaches and players alike.
Here’s how the rule works:
- A player can play in four or fewer games in a season.
- These games do not need to be played consecutively.
- The rule applies to any part of the season, including bowl games.
This rule is particularly beneficial for freshmen looking to get a taste of real game experience, or for players who may be needed late in the season due to team injuries. It essentially allows a player to be a contributor without burning an entire season of eligibility.
Why Coaches Use Redshirting
Redshirting can be an extremely useful tool in a coach’s arsenal. Here are some strategic reasons why a player might be redshirted:
- Physical Maturity: College football is physically demanding. Redshirting allows young players time to gain size, strength, and conditioning.
- Understanding the System: Learning a college-level playbook and adjusting to the pace of the game can take time. A redshirt year helps players adapt without pressure.
- Depth Chart Considerations: If a position is loaded with upperclassmen, a player might redshirt to avoid wasting eligibility while sitting on the bench.
- Injury Recovery: Some players may be recovering from high school injuries and use the redshirt year to heal.
By redshirting a player, a program can plan for the future and maintain a steady pipeline of talent. It’s a chess move in a game that spans years.
The Redshirt Freshman Explained
One of the terms you may hear is “redshirt freshman.” This refers to a player in their second year at a university (first year was a redshirt year), who is using their first year of actual playing eligibility. Don’t be confused by the “freshman” label—these athletes have a year of college classes and team practice under their belt and are often much more prepared for game day action.
Success Stories: Redshirting’s Long-Term Impact
Many successful players have benefited from taking a redshirt year. Quarterbacks, in particular, often find success later in their careers thanks to the developmental time redshirting provides. Notable players like Heisman Trophy winner Baker Mayfield and NFL star J.J. Watt both redshirted during their college careers. The year off allowed them to mature, improve their skills, and eventually shine on the national stage.
Potential Drawbacks of Redshirting
While redshirting has its benefits, it also comes with potential downsides:
- Delayed Entry to the NFL: For aspiring professionals, staying in college an extra year could delay their entry into the draft.
- Risk of Being Replaced: A player who redshirts risks being overshadowed by incoming recruitment classes.
- Academic and Social Challenges: Being on the team but not playing might be demoralizing for some athletes.
It’s crucial for players and coaching staff to weigh these factors when deciding whether redshirting is the right choice.
The Transfer Portal and Redshirting
The rise of the NCAA Transfer Portal has added a layer of complexity to redshirting. Athletes can now switch schools more easily while retaining eligibility. Some players may even use their redshirt year at one school and transfer to another program where they receive more playing time or a better fit.
Redshirting in the Era of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic further altered the redshirting landscape. In response to canceled games and shortened seasons, the NCAA granted all athletes an extra year of eligibility in 2020. This led to a situation where some players participated in a season yet maintained their full eligibility, creating unique roster challenges and opportunities nationwide.
Conclusion: A Strategic Pause, Not a Setback
Redshirting in college football is much more than taking a year off. It’s a strategic move designed to enhance a player’s long-term growth, both on the field and in the classroom. With evolving rules allowing more flexibility, it has become an even more dynamic aspect of the game.
Whether it’s giving a freshman time to bulk up, allowing a star-in-the-making to shine a year later, or providing recovery time for an injured player, redshirting can be a career-defining decision. Understanding how and why this system is used is essential for anyone who wants to appreciate the finer points of college football strategy.