SEC football coaches are growing increasingly concerned about pending roster limits and the potential elimination of scholarship limits. The NCAA vs. House case settlement is expected to bring about changes to roster sizes as a cost-cutting measure. Currently, football teams can have more than 120 players with an 85-scholarship limit. However, the exact number for roster limits is still uncertain, with 85 not being ruled out. This could lead to the end of walk-ons, which some coaches believe would be detrimental to the sport.
During a meeting with SEC commissioner Greg Sankey, coaches expressed their concerns about the proposed changes. Oklahoma coach Brent Venables questioned the logic of expanding the season and playing more games while simultaneously reducing roster sizes. Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko strongly opposed the idea, stating that it goes against the principles of college football and would be detrimental to legacy athletes who rely on walk-on opportunities.
Georgia’s Kirby Smart shared examples of walk-ons who went on to achieve great success in football, such as Dabo Swinney and Will Muschamp. He argued that eliminating walk-on opportunities would hurt high school football and diminish the dreams of aspiring athletes. SEC commissioner Greg Sankey urged coaches to consider the reasoning behind the changes before making any decisions.
The final decision on roster limits is yet to be determined, but some limitations are expected to be imposed. While Texas coach Steve Sarkisian initially took a practical view, acknowledging the need to adapt, he later expressed concerns about losing the tradition of walk-on players. Sarkisian emphasized the importance of finding a reasonable number that allows coaches and players to operate at a high level while maintaining the tradition of walk-ons.
Coaches also raised concerns about how smaller rosters would impact player development. They noted that having extra players who may not play but can contribute on the scout team is crucial for growth and learning. Additionally, time constraints and limited practice hours in college football compared to the NFL pose challenges for player development.
Some coaches believe that a lower roster limit could spread talent across more programs, benefiting smaller colleges. However, even smaller programs like larger rosters, as they believe it leads to more efficient practices and ensures the health and safety of players. Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer, who has experience coaching at various levels, acknowledged that there is always a way to adapt but emphasized that operating with 85 players would significantly change practice plans and coaching strategies.
Overall, SEC football coaches are divided on the issue of roster limits. While some acknowledge the need for cost-cutting measures and adaptability, others argue that it would undermine the essence of college football and hinder player development. The final decision on roster limits is still pending, and it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the future of college football.