Texas A&M, Texas release joint statement to Ted Cruz opposing Protect College Sports Act

Texas A&M and the University of Texas issued a joint statement to Senator Ted Cruz opposing the Protect College Sports Act, though they acknowledged Congress's efforts to address college athletics challenges. The bill, co-authored by Cruz and Senator Maria Cantwell, would implement a one-time transfer rule, five-year eligibility clock, prevent midseason coaching departures, and ban professional players from competing in college sports. The universities said they do not support the bill in its current form but pledged to work with Congress and the Southeastern Conference on improvements.

The Protect College Sports Act would be the first college sports legislation brought to a full Senate vote if advanced by Majority Leader John Thune. The NCAA has already approved a similar five-for-five rule set to take full effect in the 2027-28 season. After Senator Cantwell accused the SEC and Big Ten of intimidating members through schedule-change threats, both conferences disputed her characterization, stating they have been engaged and collaborative in evaluating the bill.