After quarterback Shedeur Sanders went undrafted in the 2025 NFL draft, questions emerged: Should he return to college football? While some dismissed this idea, changes in NCAA regulations may be opening doors. Recent years have shown that many NCAA rules, when challenged, face scrutiny under antitrust laws. The rule that stops drafted football players from returning to college could be next in line for reassessment.
Take the case of James Nnaji. The seven-foot basketball player was selected in the first round of the 2023 NBA draft by the Detroit Pistons. His rights later shifted to the Charlotte Hornets and then the New York Knicks. Despite being drafted, Nnaji never signed an NBA contract and has been granted four years of eligibility by the NCAA to play for Baylor. This sets a potential precedent for football players like Sanders.
Imagine a college football player declaring for the draft, having second thoughts, and wanting to return. Players who aren’t picked where they anticipated or don’t want to play for certain teams—like the Jets—might find this option intriguing.
With the rise of NIL (name, image, likeness) deals, college athletes now have more financial power. They can weigh their options more strategically. For instance, instead of accepting a low-slot draft deal, a player could stay in college, earn more through endorsements, and improve their draft position the following year.
As college football evolves, the landscape for athletes is changing. They can now make smarter, business-savvy decisions regarding their careers.
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