What is redshirt freshman?

A redshirt freshman in college athletics is a student-athlete who is in their second year at a college or university, but they have not yet participated in any official games or competitions.

The term "redshirt" refers to the practice of sitting out one season of competition in order to retain a year of eligibility. This allows student-athletes to fully recover from injuries, adjust to the demands of college academics and athletics, or simply develop their skills and athleticism before competing at the collegiate level.

Redshirt freshmen are often viewed as having an advantage over true freshmen, as they have had an additional year to adjust to the college environment and to work on their skills. They may also have more experience and maturity than younger players.

Overall, redshirt freshmen can be a valuable asset to a college athletic program, as they bring a unique combination of experience and potential to the team. They are often considered to be a key part of the team's future success.