Roundingthird,
While I agree with your post, it seems that graduating in 5 years is quite common these days. Even for non athletes.
Like I told my sons, you have 40+ years to work after you graduate, what's the rush!
Here is a question I have, Do you have to be an undergraduate to play?
Do to AP credits my youngest can probably graduate in 3 (if he pushes a little)to 3 1/2 years. Can he still play as a graduate student?