If I just took over a team (world is still in job application), and I rescind a scholarship, will I still get cash for that spot in the following recruiting period?  I know you can't get the cash if you rescind while recruiting is going on, but what if it hasn't started yet?

No, you must cut the guy the season beforehand. Pretty sure it's before signings start.

Thanks, I figured there was a chance since the season hasn't really "rolled over" yet.  The seniors from the previous season are still on my team.

Does anyone know the "real" consequences of cutting a player in this game? I really need to make room for at least one more player and correct a recruiting mistake but I fear the damage to my reputation/other players leaving. Has anyone cut a player (or two) and if so what were consequences? The player I want to cut is a junior but has shown zero improvement and really is just a waste of a scholarship as the worst player on the team.

you will take a minor reputation hit that will recover in a season or 2. There is a small % chance that another player will quit in a show of solidarity with his fallen brother. I have never had that happen. I always cut most of the team when taking over crappy rebuilds, and I have occasionally cut a player I recruited as well (although not frequently enough to have it be any kind of statistical representation...)

cutting one will have no meaningful effect on rep - cutting two may be noticeable.  Risk of others leaving goes up with more cuts

there is some level - I dont recall what - that the game will not let you cut

Thanks guys, much appreciated!

you can cut at least 4 players you didnt recruit, upon arrival, without dropping more than a partial grade or two in rep, which you should recoup in one season. unless you plan to immediately leave for another job, just cut away. ive cut at least 5 without dropping below an a-.

Thanks. I cut one player I did recruit (when I first started and was even more dumb than I am now) and I lost a letter grade from A- to B-. I might want to cut one more but I don't have plans to change schools, not until I'm really good where I am so I may take the risk and cut one or two more to try to find guys who better fit my system. I made a mistake not focusing on work ethic and offensive and defensive skills when I recruited last season. I think that's why I struggled so badly and some guys are just not good at anything,

When I took over my D1 team, I cut 4 players the sim had recruited and didn't see even a twitch on my rep.   Many seasons ago when I took over George Fox (D3 Naismith), I cut one player and had 2 transfer out.  That may have been under the pre-rules update, I don't remember.  It was a kick in the nuts at any rate.

I'm assuming it matters if it's your recruit or not. The one I cut was my recruit