How long is the NCAA recruiting dead period?

The NCAA recruiting dead period is a specific time frame during which college coaches are prohibited from in-person recruiting activities with prospective student-athletes. This period typically lasts for four weeks. During a dead period, coaches may not visit prospective student-athletes or their families and are limited to communication through phone calls, emails, or other electronic means. This rule is designed to create a level playing field in recruiting and to give prospective student-athletes a break from constant recruitment and pressure.

The length of the dead period can vary depending on the sport and the specific NCAA rules that apply, but four weeks is the standard period set in many cases. Understanding the specifics of the recruiting timeline is crucial for anyone involved in college athletics, whether they are coaches or prospective athletes, as it influences strategies and timelines for recruitment and athlete engagement.