The Red Shirt Phenomenon

[Pesmerga]

Freshman? Hah! They don't put red shirts on players until the varsity level. If you're playing freshman football QB, it really shouldn't matter if you get hurt... Because you shouldn't be passing the ball. Thats for sure.

To "redshirt" a player is a term used at the collegiate football level to basically allow a player to sit out for a year while still practicing with the team, and not using a year of eligibilty. It allows for the development of players within a program (normally used for players who are not ready to play at a college level). This is what Quark is talking about.

The red shirt your are thinking of is an actual shirt or pinnie worn so as a reminder for the defense not to hit the Quarterback during practice drills.

Note: Basically an elaboration on Nystul's point.