Redshirt

2 Ways to Qualify for a Redshirt Year

By Noah Fisher|Updated on June 27, 2023 (originally published on November 22, 2021)

There are a lot of unfamiliar terms when entering the college recruiting process. One of the most common is “redshirt.”

Originating from the color of shirt worn by said players at practice, “redshirt” refers to a college athlete (usually freshmen) who doesn't play against any outside competition during that year. This athlete can practice with the team and participate in all other activities.

“Redshirts” can also receive financial aid and use it toward school to get a year of academics under their belt.

Freshman usually choose to redshirt because it allows them the opportunity to get settled into the school and athletic program for an entire year while not wasting a year of eligibility. They are then able to play a year of college ball after their fourth year. They can either spread out their course load, or start a masters program that last year.

The other situation where an athlete can receive redshirt status after their freshman year is if they get injured. If a player is injured during the season, they could be eligible to redshirt, so they can use their eligibility once they've recovered. The NCAA stipulates that said athlete must have had the injury in the first half of the season and have played in less than 30% of season games. If they pass these two rules, then they are eligible.