PITTSBORO, Miss. — Saying “the NCAA ignored its own rules,” a Mississippi judge granted Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss a preliminary injunction Thursday against the largest governing body for college athletics in the United States, allowing him to receive an extra year of eligibility so he can play during the 2026 football season.
The NCAA denied a waiver request from Chambliss on Jan. 9, and after he appealed, the organization’s Athletics Eligibility Subcommittee upheld the denial on Feb. 4.
Judge Robert Whitwell of the 18th Chancery Court District took about 90 minutes to explain his decision that he agreed with Chambliss’ argument that the player’s medical history was not properly considered by the NCAA. The 23-year-old Chambliss has been in college for five years, but the 6-foot, 200-pounder from Grand Rapids, Michigan, was healthy enough to play just three seasons in that span.
A statement released by the Ole Miss athletic department read: “We appreciate the thoughtful consideration given to this matter and for the court’s recognition of the circumstances surrounding Trinidad’s case. We believe this outcome affirms what we have maintained throughout this process — that Trinidad deserves the opportunity to compete and complete his collegiate career on the field.
“Trinidad has demonstrated tremendous perseverance, character and commitment to his teammates, this university and college football.”