The Rise of Sixth-Year Seniors in College Football
As the repercussions of the COVID-shortened 2020 football season slowly dissipate, the college football landscape has seen the emergence of inventive strategies by players aiming to extend their collegiate careers. While the trend of sixth- and seventh-year seniors is not as widespread as it once was, a dedicated group continues to impact the game significantly.
Key Examples of Extended Eligibility
One notable case is Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, who has contested NCAA eligibility rules in court. Pavia claims that the NCAA’s regulations, which consider a player’s time spent in junior college as part of their overall eligibility, contravene antitrust laws. In a recent legal development, he received an injunction permitting him and other junior college athletes to return for an additional playing season, ensuring that the trend of seasoned seniors remains prominent for the moment.
Prominent Sixth-Year Seniors to Watch in 2025
Carlton Beck, QB, Miami
After two years at Georgia, quarterback Carlton Beck transferred to Miami, seeking to make his mark following the departure of 2024 Heisman Trophy finalist Cam Ward. In his time at Georgia, Beck amassed 7,426 passing yards and 52 touchdowns, though he faced challenges with 12 interceptions. Improving his consistency will be essential for his professional prospects.
Jordan Botelho, LB, Notre Dame
Jordan Botelho, a former top-100 prospect, received an extra year of eligibility due to an injury that cut short his 2024 season after just three games. Batting through adversity, he totaled 12 tackles, including one sack, before his injury. Set to play as a “Viper,” Botelho is anticipated to emerge as a formidable pass-rusher, aiming to replicate his 2022-2023 performance of 8.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss.
Brock Daniels, WR, Miami
Transferring to Miami after a successful season at Liberty, wide receiver Brock Daniels showcased his potential with 55 receptions for 1,067 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2023, becoming one of the top players in the transfer portal for 2024. However, his season at LSU was disappointing, with only 480 yards and no touchdowns. A fresh start in Miami might reignite his production.
Tyler Faison, RB, South Carolina
After a journey through junior colleges and Marshall, running back Tyler Faison secured his footing at Utah State, rushing for 1,845 yards and 13 touchdowns over two seasons. With a transfer to South Carolina, he is expected to capitalize on the opportunity, filling the gap left by leading rusher Raheim Sanders.
Nikhai Hill-Green, LB, Alabama
Linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green began his career at Michigan before transferring to Charlotte, where he earned third-team All-AAC honors. After a successful season with Colorado, he will now join Alabama, filling the void created by the departure of All-SEC linebacker Jihaad Campbell.
Jalen Height, DL, Georgia Tech
Originally a four-star recruit at Auburn, Jalen Height bounced around programs due to injuries and coaching changes. He found success at Georgia Tech, ranking highly in tackles for loss and showcasing his versatility as a defensive edge. Now, he adds depth to Texas Tech’s 2025 recruiting class.
Jesse Kamara, DL, Indiana
Jesse Kamara has been closely associated with coach Curt Cignetti since beginning his college career at James Madison. After missing significant time due to injury, he emerged as a standout player in 2024, receiving first-team All-Big Ten status. His stability will be crucial for Indiana’s defense.
Akil King, QB, Georgia Tech
Despite dealing with injuries throughout his career, Akil King stands as one of the top quarterbacks in the ACC. He has demonstrated his mobility with 1,324 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. The 2025 season may see him share responsibilities with Aaron Philo, following a year of co-ownership of the starting role.
Diego Pavia, QB, Vanderbilt
Transferring from New Mexico State, where he was the 2023 Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year, Diego Pavia proved his worth at Vanderbilt, leading the Commodores to a 7-6 record—including an upset over No. 1 Alabama. Pavia’s dual-threat capability is evidenced by 801 rushing yards and eight touchdowns alongside 20 passing touchdowns and only four interceptions in 2024.
Jonathan Pregnon, OL, Oregon
Jonathan Pregnon experienced a pandemic-shortened freshman year before transferring to USC, where he earned second-team All-Big Ten recognition. After initially planning to enter the NFL Draft, he has opted for another season with Oregon to enhance his draft stock further.
Tré Williams, DL, Michigan
After facing a string of injuries during his time at Clemson, Tré Williams finally had a breakthrough season in 2024, recording 14 total tackles and two sacks. Now, he relocates to Michigan where he is expected to play an integral role following the loss of several key defensive players.
Conclusion
The presence of sixth-year seniors in college football highlights the evolving landscape of player eligibility and professional aspirations. As athletes like Diego Pavia challenge the NCAA’s rules, their stories illustrate the determination and resilience required to succeed at the highest levels of collegiate athletics.