Athletes who graduate from the Navy, Air Force and Army will now be allowed to enter professional play following graduation, thanks to a policy change that removes the 24-month active duty requirement normally mandatory before being able to join a professional sports team.

Sports Illustrated verified the police change with the Air Force on July 12, adding that Army, Navy and Air Force graduates may apply for reserve duty following graduation, and that the policy shift may entice more recruits previously deterred by the immediate active duty requirement to join.