The idea that the NCAA is open to a policy that would allow student-athletes a one-time opportunity to transfer and have immediate eligibility was big news on Tuesday. And if the working group charged with creating a new concept can develop something the Division I Council will accept, new rules could be in place as early as next year.

On Tuesday, the NCAA released a statement saying the Transfer Waiver Working Group is working on creating a policy that will allow all student-athletes across all sports a one-time transfer waiver, allowing all players immediate eligibility if its their first time transferring. Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel told The Detroit News that it’s “great news” for college athletics.

“That’s great news, it really is,” Manuel said. “The idea is that everybody can transfer one time. The second time you transfer, there is no waiver. Everybody sits. There should be no waiver process. This gives everybody a chance to transfer once.”

The working group’s new idea would apply to student-athletes in all sports. And student-athletes wanting to receive immediate eligibility after transferring would have to meet the following criteria, per the NCAA:

  • Receive a transfer release from their previous school.
  • Leave their previous school academically eligible.
  • Maintain their academic progress at the new school.
  • Leave under no disciplinary suspension.

The B1G made the initial push to organize a new rule, as the current system has come under harsh scrutiny. Earlier this week, the ACC joined the B1G in the fight.

“The current system is unsustainable. Working group members believe it’s time to bring our transfer rules more in line with today’s college landscape,” said Jon Steinbrecher, commissioner of the MAC and working group chair. “This concept provides a uniform approach that is understandable, predictable and objective. Most importantly, it benefits students.”