CHARLOTTE — Texas football lost running back Jerrick Gibson and kicker Will Stone midway through the 2025 season after both players made themselves unavailable in an effort to preserve their redshirts and enter the transfer portal in the winter with an extra year of eligibility intact. 

Similar cases have played out across college football since the introduction of the transfer portal. Tuesday, the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) took a step that it hopes will minimize that problem. 

Article continues below this ad

Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) lifts the trophy with head coach Steve Sarkisianas the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty’Anthony Smith (26) lifts the trophy with head coach Steve Sarkisianas the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) eats a Cheez-It encrusted turkey leg as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) eats a Cheez-It encrusted turkey leg as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Kaliq Lockett (7) catches a 30-yard pass from Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Kaliq Lockett (7) catches a 30-yard pass from Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball 6- yard to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball 6- yard to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanPrince Chedward pours Cheez-Its into the mouth of Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Brandon Baker (73) as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Prince Chedward pours Cheez-Its into the mouth of Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Brandon Baker (73) as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks for a pass in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks for a pass in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) catches a pass to score in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) catches a pass to score in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) holds the ball as he is surrounded by Michigan defense in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) holds the ball as he is surrounded by Michigan defense in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMichigan Wolverines tight end Marlin Klein (17) jumps for a pass as Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) rushes to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Michigan Wolverines tight end Marlin Klein (17) jumps for a pass as Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty’Anthony Smith (26) rushes to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Daylan McCutcheon (17) carries the Texas flag as the Longhorns ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Daylan McCutcheon (17) carries the Texas flag as the Longhorns ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Kobe Black (6) collides with Michigan Wolverines running back Bryson Kuzdzal (24) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Kobe Black (6) collides with Michigan Wolverines running back Bryson Kuzdzal (24) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) goes down under the Michigan defense in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) goes down under the Michigan defense in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns celebrate with Prince Chedward after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns celebrate with Prince Chedward after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe ball is knocked from the grasp of Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

The ball is knocked from the grasp of Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) celebrates a first down gain in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) celebrates a first down gain in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMichigan Wolverines defensive back Elijah Dotson (22) runs down the field as the ball is kicked off in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Michigan Wolverines defensive back Elijah Dotson (22) runs down the field as the ball is kicked off in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMichigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) throws a pass in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) throws a pass in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (11) dives to try to block a pass heading for Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Donaven McCulley (1) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (11) dives to try to block a pass heading for Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Donaven McCulley (1) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to locker room after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to locker room after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanA member of the Longhorn Marching Band wears a Cheez-It hat in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

A member of the Longhorn Marching Band wears a Cheez-It hat in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas players eat Cheez-It encrusted turkey legs as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas players eat Cheez-It encrusted turkey legs as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanFans cast shadows on a “Cheez-it” tunnel ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025. The snack brand is the premiere sponsor of the bowl game.

Fans cast shadows on a “Cheez-it” tunnel ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025. The snack brand is the premiere sponsor of the bowl game.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe Texas cheer team enter the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

The Texas cheer team enter the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas takes the field ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas takes the field ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanPrince Chedward entertains the crowd in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl between the Texas Longhorns and the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Prince Chedward entertains the crowd in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl between the Texas Longhorns and the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) hands his gloves to young fans as he warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) hands his gloves to young fans as he warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) greets young fans he heads to the locker room after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) greets young fans he heads to the locker room after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanA fan films the team as they walk into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

A fan films the team as they walk into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jordon Johnson-Rubell (23) tackles Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Kendrick Bell (10) in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jordon Johnson-Rubell (23) tackles Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Kendrick Bell (10) in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas mascot Bevo on the sidelines ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas mascot Bevo on the sidelines ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball as Michigan Wolverines tight end Zack Marshall (83) arrives to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball as Michigan Wolverines tight end Zack Marshall (83) arrives to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Karle "Kj" Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle “Kj” Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Lance Jackson (40) blocks Michigan Wolverines offensive lineman Brady Norton (70) in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Lance Jackson (40) blocks Michigan Wolverines offensive lineman Brady Norton (70) in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Karle "Kj" Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle “Kj” Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Karle "Kj" Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle “Kj” Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) runs through an attempt from Michigan Wolverines defensive back Brandyn Hillman (6) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) runs through an attempt from Michigan Wolverines defensive back Brandyn Hillman (6) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) runs the ball in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) runs the ball in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMichigan Wolverines wide receiver Kendrick Bell (10) catches a pass in the end zone to score as Texas Longhorns defensive back Kobe Black (6) defends in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Kendrick Bell (10) catches a pass in the end zone to score as Texas Longhorns defensive back Kobe Black (6) defends in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) sends a pass in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) sends a pass in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V (3) gets around Michigan Wolverines linebacker Chase Taylor (29) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V (3) gets around Michigan Wolverines linebacker Chase Taylor (29) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMichigan Wolverines tight end Marlin Klein (17) jumps for a pass as Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) rushes to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Michigan Wolverines tight end Marlin Klein (17) jumps for a pass as Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty’Anthony Smith (26) rushes to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) defends as Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) runs the ball in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) defends as Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) runs the ball in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMichigan Wolverines defensive lineman Ikechukwu Iwunnah (92) grabs the face mask of Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Ikechukwu Iwunnah (92) grabs the face mask of Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanPrince Chedward throws Cheez-Its at players as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Prince Chedward throws Cheez-Its at players as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanCheez-Its decorate the field as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Cheez-Its decorate the field as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanA scrum forms around the ball in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl between the Texas Longhorns and the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

A scrum forms around the ball in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl between the Texas Longhorns and the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) puts an arm out to stop a tackle from Michigan Wolverines defensive back Zeke Berry (10) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) puts an arm out to stop a tackle from Michigan Wolverines defensive back Zeke Berry (10) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (11) celebrates a play in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (11) celebrates a play in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanA Michigan fan reacts as a touchdown goes to review in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Texas Longhorns at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

A Michigan fan reacts as a touchdown goes to review in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Texas Longhorns at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Brad Spence (14) and the Texas defense in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Brad Spence (14) and the Texas defense in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) celebrates an interception in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty’Anthony Smith (26) celebrates an interception in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball 6- yard to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball 6- yard to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns kicker Mason Shipley (49) scores a 51-yard field goal in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns kicker Mason Shipley (49) scores a 51-yard field goal in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive tackle Hero Kanu (93) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Hero Kanu (93) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball in for a 23-yard touchdown in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball in for a 23-yard touchdown in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Marshall Landwehr (51) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Marshall Landwehr (51) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty’Anthony Smith (26) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) catches a snap in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) catches a snap in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Xavier Filsaime (17) lines up in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Xavier Filsaime (17) lines up in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

The AFCA FBS coaches voted unanimously to support raising the redshirt game limit from four games to nine. That recommendation will now head to the NCAA for deliberation. 

Texas Longhorns running back Jerrick Gibson (9) advances the ball during the Texas Longhorns’ game against the Sam Houston State Bearkats at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Jerrick Gibson (9) advances the ball during the Texas Longhorns’ game against the Sam Houston State Bearkats at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025.

Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian, who was not present Tuesday in Charlotte, N.C., has thrown his public support behind similar ideas. After news of Gibson and Stone’s departure broke, Sarkisian said he supported a “five for five” concept, which would give college players five years to play five seasons. Under the current system, they have five years to play four seasons. 

Article continues below this ad

MORE: How the 13 players signed in transfer portal fit in with 2026 Longhorns

Tuesday’s measure comes close to the one Sarkisian advocated for. A player would have to miss three regular-season games in one of his first four seasons in order to access the fifth season of eligibility. 

“I’ve been an advocate for five for five,” Sarkisian said in October. “I’ve said it all along, I think it’s a terrible position to put these players in to make these decisions right now. There’s money involved, there’s revenue sharing, there’s NIL, there’s different factors, and I think it’s putting agents and family members and student athletes in a difficult position to make business decisions in the middle of the season, but that’s where we’re at.“

Article continues below this ad

The gathered group of FBS coaches included Georgia’s Kirby Smart, Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman, Clemson’s Dabo Swinney, Florida’s John Sumrall and several other heavy hitters. They met in the ballroom of the Charlotte Convention Center for roughly four hours, but did not come to official conclusions on some of the other major issues facing college football. 

Several coaches at this week’s AFCA convention expressed dissatisfaction with the current transfer portal setup. 

The portal, which open for college players Jan. 2 and closes Jan. 16, forces teams playing in the postseason to manage their time between preparing for payoff games — or later cycle bowl games — and building a roster for next season. 

MORE: Texas football isn’t retaining its high school recruits. But neither are Longhorns’ peers

Article continues below this ad

That demand also exerts stress on the annual coaching carousel. Both of Oregon’s coordinators, for example, took head coaching jobs and were splitting their time during the College Football Playoff between roster construction at their new homes and preparing for games with the Ducks. 

A more dramatic illustration of those drawbacks played out at Ole Miss. The Rebels’ coach, Lane Kiffin, accepted the LSU coaching job before the end of the season and did not coach Ole Miss in the CFP after failing to reach an agreement with the administration that would allow him to do so. 

Some coaches support bringing the season forward in order to wrap up the playoffs before the portal opens. Others want the transfer portal dates pushed back, which could create issues with the academic calendar and force changes to spring practice structures. 

Article continues below this ad

Despite those strong feelings, no official AFCA recommendation came out of Tuesday’s proceedings, leaving coaches stuck balancing the transfer portal and postseason football — unless, of course, they don’t qualify for bowl games. 

“It was a great year to go 5-7,” one Group of Five coach joked as he left the meeting.