Good question @Gov I’m interested in seeing the responses. I’m probably the least qualified to weigh in, as I just let my son deal with everything and we haven’t had a “sit down” to determine what we’ll do.
Son is in the portal for a grad year, as his school doesn’t have a grad program. He has received significant interest from many schools. Some have verbally provided aide, but I’m not sure if it’s academic or athletic aide. Those that haven’t, I just assume they’re keeping a communication line open. Some aide offers have been quite high, so I assume they’re either athletic/academic combos or maybe different rules apply, per your question.
There doesn’t appear to be pressure for him to sign. I’m not sure why a school would, as things will really open up in the summer, where they’ll be in the driver seat.
I’m torn whether I want him to play another year, or just move on, so I’m just being patient with how things will play out.