The NCAA ‘ignored its own rules,’ and in doing so, improperly denied Ole Miss star Trinidad Chambliss a sixth year of eligibility, according to a state judge ruling on the quarterback’s behalf Thursday.
Chambliss had appealed the NCAA’s initial to deny his waiver request, but college sports’ governing body upheld its decision on February 4.
Meanwhile, attorneys working on Chambliss’ behalf had sued the NCAA, claiming the denial was done in ‘bad faith. The lawsuit contended that, although Chambliss participated in the maximum of five total seasons, he’s really only been active in three of those due to a series of illnesses.
On Thursday, Mississippi judge Robert Whitwell sided with Chambliss, who will now receive a sixth year of eligibility. Specifically, Whitwell said Chambliss would have received ‘irreparable harm’ by the NCAA’s initial ruling. The NCAA, Whitwell continued, would not be harmed by Chambliss being allowed to continue playing for a sixth season.
‘We appreciate the thoughtful consideration given to this matter and for the court’s recognition of the circumstances surrounding Trinidad’s case,’ Ole Miss’ athletic department said in a statement.
The NCAA ‘ignored its own rules,’ and in doing so, improperly denied Ole Miss star Trinidad Chambliss a sixth year of eligibility, according to a state judge
‘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.’
The legal argument relied on Chambliss’ litany of health issues and the NCAA’s history of granting extra eligibility to players dealing with similar problems.
Chambliss’ lawsuit, obtained by the Daily Mail, provided a list of the health issues Chambliss battled in high school and at his first college, Division II Ferris State in Michigan. The problems began with Epstein–Barr virus, which led to mononucleosis and that was later complicated by an extended bout with COVID-19 in 2020, according to the lawsuit.
Chambliss continued to face tonsil infections at Ferris State, according to Dr. Anthony Howard, an otolaryngologist working in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
‘His chronic tonsillitis represents a medically valid basis for hardship consideration as his condition rendered him incapacitated and unable to participate in the 2022 season,’ Howard wrote in the lawsuit.
Trinidad Chambliss #6 of the Ole Miss Rebels runs the ball against Armondo Blount #18 of the Miami Hurricanes during the second half of CFP Semifinal Vrbo Fiesta Bowl
The NCAA has not responded directly to the lawsuit, but has referred media to its previous ruling, denying Chambliss eligibility for 2027.
‘This decision aligns with consistent application of NCAA rules,’ the statement read.
Chambliss shined in a dramatic season for Ole Miss, which was abandoned by head coach Lane Kiffin before the Rebels’ College Football Playoff debut. While Kiffin went to LSU, Chambliss led Ole Miss to the semifinals, where they fell to Miami.
Meanwhile, Montana linebacker Solomon Tuliaupupu received a ninth year of eligibility after beginning his college career at USC back in 2018. Tuliaupupu suffered severe knee injuries in 2018, 2020 and 2023.
While some talented players still leave school early for NFL riches, other top college stars have sought to remain at the NCAA level after the organization lifted rules preventing endorsement deals and other revenue streams.