<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Summary:&lt;/b&gt; The NCAA is moving toward a "Hard Clock" eligibility model to end a $16M legal headache. Here is the breakdown:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;The Big Shift:&lt;/b&gt; We're moving from "4 seasons in 5 years" to a flat &lt;b&gt;5-year window&lt;/b&gt;.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;The Start Line:&lt;/b&gt; Your clock starts the moment you graduate high school or hit age 19. No more "saving" years.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;The Death of the Redshirt:&lt;/b&gt; Medical waivers and eligibility appeals are being phased out. Unless it’s for military service, religious missions, or maternity leave, the clock does not stop for injuries or bench time.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;Why Now?&lt;/b&gt; The NCAA is tired of the courtroom. After spending $16M on eligibility lawsuits in just one year, they want a "no-exceptions" rule that sticks.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;The Timeline:&lt;/b&gt; Look for a phased rollout as early as &lt;b&gt;Fall 2026&lt;/b&gt;.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</description>

Summary: The NCAA is moving toward a "Hard Clock" eligibility model to end a $16M legal headache. Here is the breakdown:<ul><li>The Big Shift: We're moving from "4 seasons in 5 years" to a flat 5-year window.</li><li>The Start Line: Your clock starts the moment you graduate high school or hit age 19. No more "saving" years.</li><li>The Death of the Redshirt: Medical waivers and eligibility appeals are being phased out. Unless it’s for military service, religious missions, or maternity leave, the clock does not stop for injuries or bench time.</li><li>Why Now? The NCAA is tired of the courtroom. After spending $16M on eligibility lawsuits in just one year, they want a "no-exceptions" rule that sticks.</li><li>The Timeline: Look for a phased rollout as early as Fall 2026.</li></ul>

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NCAA Proposed Changes

NCAA Proposed Changes

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