Bret Bielema is expecting the NCAA to pass a rule giving players five years of eligibility.

"I think 5 for 5 will be in place for the guys next year, I don't have any reservations of that... I know the Big Ten is 100% behind it, I know the Big 12 was when I talked to Coach… pic.twitter.com/pX2T9vWR7B

— Glenn Kinley (@glenn_kinley) September 18, 2025

If this does go through I would have to imagine it applies to all sports. Something like that could dramatically shape the leverage options that 3rd year guys getting drafted. Right now when they get drafted in the 10th round they almost always take the 200K even if they could go higher next year because they wouldn't have leverage as a senior to get a good signing bonus. Them and MLB teams knowing they have a 5th year to fall back on would change the equation quite a bit.

Think: Ryan Prager this year who could have had 2 more years of eligibility and so decides to come back for 1 more to boost his draft stock up to where it was.

Schools like Illinois, which aren't getting many 4- and 5-star players, would greatly benefit from having players stay for 5 years. Competing with teenagers or players four years younger would help them level the playing field.