Dugout Dish: In the Clubhouse with EMD | Unlimited Transfers in College Sports: Why Coaches Want New NCAA Rules
by Keith Glasser on Mar 11, 2026
In this episode, we break down the growing debate around transfer rules in college athletics and why many coaches and athletic departments believe the current NCAA transfer portal system needs reform.
Over the past several months, frustration has been building across college sports as coaches and administrators deal with the reality of athletes transferring multiple times with immediate eligibility. Combined with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, the system has increasingly started to resemble free agency at the highest levels of college athletics.
We discuss how the current transfer portal landscape has drifted from the original intent of transfer waivers and athlete mobility. Our proposed solution is a one-time transfer rule, where student-athletes can transfer once and play immediately, but would need to sit out a year of competition if they choose to transfer a second or third time.
In the episode we also discuss:
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Why coaches across college sports are raising concerns about the current system
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How unlimited transfers impact roster stability and program development
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The role NIL money is playing in player movement
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Potential rule changes the NCAA could implement to restore balance
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How college sports might create a more sustainable transfer model moving forward
If you're interested in the future of the college transfer portal, NIL in college sports, and the evolving landscape of NCAA athlete movement, this episode offers a thoughtful conversation on where things stand and what changes may be coming.
