House lawmakers are considering new regulations that could allow military academy athletes graduating next year to skip their active-duty commitments in order to pursue a professional sports career. The proposed rules, included in the House Armed Services Committee’s draft of the annual defense authorization bill, would permit students from the U.S. Military Academy, Naval Academy, or Air Force Academy who secure employment as professional athletes to transfer to a recruiting billet in the reserves.
This alternative reserve commitment could last up to 10 years and would require the athletes to participate in military recruitment efforts. The provision comes after controversy surrounding a previous policy that required service members to complete at least two years of active-duty service before being eligible for a waiver to pursue professional sports.
The debate was sparked by Army star linebacker Andre Carter II, who was projected to be selected in the NFL draft. After Congress passed an addendum to the rules, Carter received a waiver and signed a contract with the Minnesota Vikings. Other academy athletes have also signed contracts with NFL teams, with the new proposal potentially allowing them to forgo active-duty service in favor of a longer reserve commitment.
Critics argue that the academies invest significant resources in training these athletes, and that allowing them to skip active-duty service could be seen as a waste. However, supporters point out that the policy change would only affect a small number of individuals each year and that similar deferments are already allowed for non-athletic, non-military opportunities.
The proposed rule change will undergo further debate in committee before facing scrutiny from the full House and Senate, with the ultimate decision resting with the president.