Exponential—a sound choice of words, but that’s how we would like to describe the rapid and impressive growth of the National Women’s Soccer League. Having begun in 2013, the American women’s soccer league has come a long way—and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. As the league enters its next edition ahead of the 2025 season, it has introduced some notable changes, including the unique Rule of 4. So, what exactly is it, and more particularly, does it benefit all the NWSL teams and players?

Before we dissect this fresh change, we hope you remember the biggest shift the NWSL made last year on August 22, 2024—foregoing the college draft. This came after the NWSL and NWSLPA agreed on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), effective until 2030. It also made the NWSL the first major U.S. sports league to abolish its draft system. Now, let’s go back to the rule of 4 to know how it opens more doors for youth players like the CBA deal. 

All about the NWSL’s Rule of 4

The Rule of 4 affects only the signatures of U-18 players. Under this regulation, all the youth players under 17 must enter the league through the U18 Entry Mechanism, while those 18 or older follow standard entry processes like the NWSL Draft or Discovery. Each team can have up to four combined U18 players between the Entry List and Senior Roster, with a slot opening once a player turns 18.

Simultaneously, the NWSL maintains a non-public U18 Entry List. League officials and teams will have exclusive access to the list to maintain confidentiality and comply with minor athlete regulations. Additionally, parental or guardian consent is required to add players. As for teams, they cannot trade these players or their roster spots.

Those from the U18 Entry Mechanism must sign a guaranteed contract within 30 days of placement on the Entry List. They do this to ensure all teams remain roster-compliant. Another crucial rule is that U18 players occupy a senior roster spot. However, they cannot be waived or traded unless the player and their guardian consent.

They must also reside with a parent or guardian. In fact, teams are even liable to provide two-bedroom housing, which does not count towards the salary cap. In case the player does avail the housing stipend, only the equivalent of market-rate two-bedroom housing is exempt from the cap, with any excess amount included.

It doesn’t end here; teams can also cover high school tuition or tutoring costs for U18 players. The best part? It does not affect the salary cap. However, for tax purposes, they should report these expenses. Further, the rule book states the player’s contract must last at least through the season in which they turn 18.

No U18 player can be selected in the Expansion Process. However, the NWSL handles the loan approvals on a case-by-case basis. Last but not least, the rule would be to adhere to the league’s guidelines for minor athletes. Regardless, it is indeed quite a lengthy rule.

Yet, the biggest takeaway for many would be to weigh its positives and negatives. So what are they then?

Pros and cons of Rule 4

Speaking of the positives, it provides stability for young players by preventing trades or waivers before they turn 18. Well, one can draw parallels with the CBA deal. Significantly, college athletes had to enter the NWSL Draft to join the league prior to the new CBA. Opting out meant waiting a year or playing abroad, while drafted players had limited choices—accept, request a trade, or leave for other leagues.

Now, the new deal gives players control, making them free agents who can negotiate with any of the 14 NWSL teams. This shift forces clubs to strengthen scouting and compete for top talent. Recruitment is now open, with factors like salary, location, playing style, and playing time shaping player decisions.

In fact, the biggest advantage that young players could get is, of course, to receive proper housing and educational support.

Teams can cultivate young talent effectively without the constraints of a salary cap. Yet, a key drawback would be that it limits roster flexibility. Since U18 spots are not tradeable, teams must comply with strict housing and contract requirements. Now, one may argue that it offers security. However, it restricts the movement of a player and opportunities compared to a fully open market.

Either way, the concluding point is that the rule is still a step forward in giving young players professional opportunities while prioritizing their welfare. But what are your thoughts on this? Sound off in the comments.