Senators Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell will unveil the Protect College Sports Act on Wednesday, a bill that seeks to restore antitrust protection to the NCAA and curb the runaway spending seen in college football and basketball. The act would cap athlete rewards, limit transfers, and give the NCAA legal cover to enforce a spending ceiling in the upcoming season.

Under the proposed rules, schools would face a maximum of five years of eligibility and a single, penalty‑free transfer. Former pros would be barred, and coaches could not be poached mid‑season. The bill also provides the NCAA and a new College Sports Commission the authority to enforce a $20 million spending cap per school, tightening the loophole that pushes toward $40 million.

The legislation also tackles television rights. If 75% of FBS schools agree, conferences could negotiate a single national deal, redistributing revenue more evenly. This move targets the gap that leaves the Big Ten and SEC—each posting over $1 billion in 2025 revenue—well ahead of the ACC and Big 12, to maintain balance across the nation and safeguard athletes.

While the bill promises tighter oversight, critics warn it may stifle innovation in NIL deals and limit schools’ ability to attract top talent. Supporters argue it preserves fair competition and safeguards student athletes from exploitation. If passed, the Act would redefine the power structure of college sports, potentially reshaping how conferences and schools operate for recruiting, broadcasting, and financial planning.