College football coaches vote to change redshirt rule | Why it's good for Ohio State

The American Football Coaches Association has unanimously voted to recommend expanding the redshirt limit from four games to nine, a proposal that could significantly impact roster management in college football. This change, pending NCAA approval, aims to address challenges in the transfer portal era, where players often stop participating after four games to preserve eligibility before transferring. By extending the redshirt threshold to nine games, teams can keep players engaged throughout most of the season without losing a year of eligibility.

For programs like Ohio State, which balance championship goals with developing young talent, this proposal represents a strategic advantage. Head coach Ryan Day has faced difficult decisions under the current four-game rule, often choosing between preserving player eligibility and addressing immediate roster needs. The proposed change would have allowed players like C.J. Hicks and Malik Hartford to contribute more significantly during the 2025 season without sacrificing future eligibility, potentially influencing the team's depth and performance in key games.

The proposal also offers benefits for future recruits. Ohio State's incoming 2026 class, which