What is a redshirt freshman?
A redshirt freshman is a college athlete who is allowed to practice with the team but cannot participate in any intercollegiate competition for that season. Redshirted freshman are afforded the same opportunities and benefits as the rest of their college teammates.
A freshman is most likely to redshirt to allow themselves to athletically develop. Other reasons athletes redshirt are because they play the same position as many upper classman or they’ve suffered a season ending injury.