A red-shirted player is a full-time student who does not participate in more over four games every season and so does not utilize one of their four years of eligibility. They may participate in any and all practices in NCAA Divisions 1 and 2. When the season starts, they must sit on the bench while the regular players go out and play. When the game is over, the red-shirted player will be able to walk off the field with their teammates. In addition, if any injuries occur during the season, the red-shirted player could become part of the lineup immediately. For example, if one of the front lines goes down in a big game, the red-shirted player could replace that player on the field without having to wait until after the season starts. The number of games a red-shirted player can play in his career depends on how much action they take at practice. If they do not see the field, they cannot use up their seasons. However, some players choose to wash out of college early because they feel like it is not worth spending four years away from home for an opportunity that might not even happen. In general, most players can play three to five games per season before burning out or hurting themselves. Some players may be able to handle six games or more per year without problem.