SportsJuly 4, 2026

redshirt

/ˈrɛdˌʃɜːrt/

Definition

A college athlete who sits out a year of competition to extend their eligibility, typically due to injury or for developmental purposes.

Etymology

The term originated in the 1930s from the practice of athletes wearing red jerseys during practice to distinguish themselves from those playing in official games. It evolved to describe players who practice with the team but do not participate in actual games to save a year of eligibility.

In the news

In the article, the player Trinidad Chambliss received an extra year of playing eligibility because he took a 'medical redshirt' during his 2022 season due to an injury. This allows him to continue his college career despite having already played for several years.

80th annual SEC post-spring football report: 2 teams place 4 each on preseason all-conference team

Read the full article ↗

AL.com

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