The Changing Face of College Sports: What's Next for Walk-Ons?

At Texas A&M, the story of E. King Gill is a powerful reminder of the spirit of walk-on athletes. Gill, a basketball player, stood ready to help the football team in 1922, even though he never got to play. This act of dedication inspired the tradition of the 12th Man, a symbol of support and readiness. Today, walk-ons like Nana Boadi-Owusu continue this legacy, but their future is uncertain due to recent legal changes in college sports. The House vs. NCAA settlement, aimed at allowing athletes to earn money, has also introduced roster limits. This means fewer spots for walk-ons, who often pay their own way. For example, Texas A&M's football team had 146 players in 2024, but the new limit is 105. This change could force many walk-ons to leave their teams or find new schools. The settlement also allows schools to designate some athletes as exempt from roster limits, but this process is still unclear. Walk-ons have always been an important part of college sports. They bring passion, work ethic, and often become stars, like Baker Mayfield and J. J. Watt. However, the new rules could make it harder for these underdogs to get their chance. Some coaches and former walk-ons have spoken out against the roster limits, arguing that they go against the spirit of college sports.The impact of these changes is already being felt. Julia Seeley, a runner at Liberty University, decided to leave her team after the roster was cut. She felt betrayed by a system that had already accepted her. Gracelyn Laudermilch, another runner, spoke at a court hearing about the unfairness of the new rules. She argued that the settlement should not limit opportunities for athletes like her. Despite the challenges, some walk-ons are still finding success. Bryce Boettcher, a linebacker at Oregon, was almost a baseball player before walking on to the football team. He has since become a key player and a potential NFL draft pick. His story shows that walk-ons can still achieve great things, but the path is getting harder. The future of walk-ons is uncertain. Some conferences, like the SEC, have kept their scholarship limits for now, but others may follow the new rules. The NCAA says the changes will create more scholarships for women and increase opportunities for men. However, many walk-ons and their supporters worry that the new rules will make it harder for underdogs to succeed. In the end, the story of walk-ons is about more than just sports. It's about hard work, dedication, and the belief that anyone can achieve their dreams. As college sports continue to change, it's important to remember the value of these athletes and the spirit they bring to the game.