The pros and Cons of the NFL and transfer portal in college sports
Kansas State v Oklahoma State
STILLWATER, OK – SEPTEMBER 28: Cornerback Kris McCune #32 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys runs onto the field for a game against the Kansas State Wildcats on September 28, 2019, at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma. OSU won 26-13, but McCune entered the transfer portal. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
By Jade Lopez, CRDN
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
The National Football League (NFL) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) transfer portal represent two nationwide aspects of the sports industry. Each with unique advantages and disadvantages that impact its players, teams, fans, and overall dynamic of the sport.
The NCAA transfer portal is a system designed to allow student-athletes to declare their desire to transfer schools and receive interest from other programs. This acts to advance the first step in a player’s transfer process. This allows athletes to have more control and freedom over their careers by seeking environments that better suit their wants and needs. This also enables schools with the ability to recruit talent from established teams, adding to their rosters.
Additionally, the rotation of players helps balance competitive disparities within college athletics, as players commit to programs where they believe they have the best chance of succeeding. On the other side, however, this process can create some instability with the frequency of moving parts, making it more challenging for coaches to build consistent teams and establish a balanced dynamic. Athletes on the hunt for more field time and better opportunities may cause them to request changes frequently, stressing out both themselves and the prospective teams.
When discussing the national league, there are various positive factors that go alongside a professional organization. For one, the opportunity to turn an athlete’s love and passion for football into a highly paid career. Second, the national attention from media and television provides players with a way to showcase their talent to millions of people. Third, the community impact that playing in the NFL gives to younger audience viewers who may dream of playing in the big leagues someday. Lastly, is the joy and thrill of playing at a professional level gives to a widespread fanbase.
This doesn’t dismiss the potential risks such as temporary and long-term injury, as many retired players suffer from traumatic brain injuries, a shorter career span than most job fields, the intense pressure and stress that can lead to everlasting mental health issues, and participating in a sport that still struggles with race, gender, and diversity conversations. Overall, both the NFL and the NCAA college transfer portal have their respective advantages, challenges, and differences, molding the experiences of players and the dynamics of their leagues. The evolution of these systems continues to spark debate and influence the future of football in the United States.