As the NWSL and women’s college seasons are now in full swing, the league enters new territory with no draft around the corner.
A new collective bargaining agreement means that players have the option to shop for clubs; and on the flip side, the pro teams have to make the recruiting pitch and financial commitment necessary to land the top talent available.
How it shakes out is yet to be determined; Brooklyn Courtnall (USC – NC Courage), Quincy McMahon (UCLA – San Diego Wave FC) and Trinity Byars (Texas – San Diego Wave FC) are the first to come off the board. The latter was first after suffering a season-ending injury this fall.
The new dynamic will get its first test in 2025, as players look at options in the NWSL, USL Super League or even opportunities abroad. Here are some of the top seniors to keep an eye on as college free agency heats up.
