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In response to a court order, attorneys managing the $2.8 billion NCAA settlement proposed an updated plan to address concerns over new roster limits that had led schools to cut players prematurely. The revised plan allows athletes who lost roster spots due to anticipated settlement terms—known as "Designated Student-Athletes"—to return or transfer to new schools without counting against the upcoming roster caps. This exemption also covers high school recruits whose scholarship offers were rescinded.

Utah quarterback Cam Rising, 25, announced his retirement from football due to a severe hand injury sustained during a game against Baylor in September. Despite plans to undergo surgery and rehabilitation, medical advice from two orthopedic physicians indicated that he would not be able to return to playing. Rising expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, and fans for their support throughout his career. He played 30 games with Utah, leading the team to Pac-12 championships in 2021 and 2022. His career was marred by injuries, limiting his appearances, including just three games in the past season. Although he is stepping away from playing, Rising will stay connected to football by serving as the offensive coordinator for his high school alma mater, Newbury Park in California.

On the latest College GameDay podcast, Rich Rodriguez reflected on his return as the head coach of West Virginia University (WVU), nearly twenty years after his initial tenure. Emphasizing his growth over 28 years of coaching experience, Rodriguez acknowledged the significant changes in college football, notably the impacts of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness), the transfer portal, and the evolving conference landscape. He expressed a willingness to adapt, focusing on building a strong team culture despite limited financial resources. Rodriguez faces a major rebuilding challenge, with just two returning starters and approximately 70 to 75 new players expected by fall. Drawing inspiration from his successful turnaround at Jacksonville State—where he led a largely new squad to eight straight victories and a conference title—he remains optimistic. His primary goal is to make WVU competitive in their league, aiming to be in title contention by November. Rodriguez is aware of the high expectations and is eager to meet them once again.

Cameron Jones, a former James Madison offensive lineman, has committed to join the Kentucky Wildcats football team. The announcement, reported by 247 Sports' Matt Zenitz, follows Jones’ recent visit to Lexington. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 310 pounds, Jones comes with three years of eligibility remaining. Initially an unranked member of the 2023 recruiting class, he redshirted his first season and saw limited action on special teams in the following year. At Kentucky, he is expected to develop as an offensive tackle, although he is not anticipated to play a significant role in the 2025 season.

Aidan Semo, a sophomore quarterback at the University at Albany, has emerged as the top quarterback following spring practice, after transferring from Georgia Tech and recovering from a knee injury sustained at a California junior college. Originally from New Windsor, Semo had previously spurned UAlbany’s recruitment attempts in high school, opting instead to join Georgia Tech, where he did not see game action. After limited play and an injury at El Camino College, Semo transferred to UAlbany and took advantage of the opportunity created by a season-ending injury to fellow quarterback Van Weber.

The University of New Haven announced its transition from Division II to Division I athletics, joining the Northeast Conference effective July 1, 2025. This move follows a 15-year effort catalyzed by alumni support, notably Dave Peterson whose philanthropy enabled the construction of the $10 million Peterson Performance Center—crucial to meeting Division I facility standards. Former coach and athletic director Chris Palmer views the move as a proactive step amidst uncertainty in college athletics, such as NIL policy changes and increased university closures.

In the latest update from Nebraska athletics, standout pitcher Jordy Bahl clinched her fifth Big Ten Pitcher of the Week title, highlighting her dominance this season. Nebraska Athletic Director Troy Dannen was named to the College Football Playoff Selection Committee and also hinted at emerging interest in NCAA women's flag football within the Big Ten following a successful showcase event.