Image source: secsports.com
Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss has taken legal action against the NCAA after the association denied his waiver for a sixth season of college eligibility. Chambliss’ team filed a lawsuit in Mississippi state court this month, asking a judge to grant him a preliminary injunction so he can play in 2026.
The Rebels signal-caller had hoped to return to Ole Miss next fall under a new contract worth up to about $6 million, but that hinge on the NCAA approving his waiver request.
Chambliss’ fight centers on his time at Division II Ferris State, where he missed the 2022 season due to chronic respiratory problems and tonsillitis. He and Ole Miss argue this should count as a medical hardship, giving him another year of eligibility.
The NCAA rejected his waiver in early January, saying Chambliss did not provide enough medical documentation from the time he was ill. The association also noted Ferris State didn’t include contemporaneous physician-generated evidence to support the claim.
Chambliss’ lawyers, including Tom Mars and William Liston, contend the NCAA acted unfairly and misinterpreted its own rules when denying the waiver. Their complaint accuses the NCAA of breaching its duty of good faith and fair dealing in the case.
The lawsuit is now before the Chancery Court in Lafayette County, Mississippi, where Ole Miss is located. That court has authority to issue injunctions that could immediately restore Chambliss’ eligibility if the judge agrees.
Chambliss had a breakout first season at the Division I level in 2025, throwing for nearly 4,000 yards and leading the Rebels to a 13-win season and a College Football Playoff semifinal berth. His performance has scouts projecting him as a high NFL Draft pick if he can’t play another college season.
If the court rules against him, Chambliss could still enter the 2026 NFL Draft, where early projections suggest he could go in the first round and command a contract worth $30 million or more.
Meanwhile, Notre Dame got positive news on the eligibility front this week. Defensive tackle Jason Onye has been granted a sixth season by the NCAA after missing most of 2024 due to mental health reasons. His successful waiver boosts a Notre Dame defensive line that lost key players to injury, medical retirement, and expired eligibility.
Onye, a 6-foot-5, 302-pound lineman from Rhode Island, returned in 2025 to play 12 games, start nine, and post strong numbers in tackles and pressures. He’s expected to be a key starter for the Irish in 2026.
The contrasting outcomes for Chambliss and Onye highlight how critical and contentious NCAA eligibility decisions have become in college football. As Chambliss’ case unfolds in court, it could set precedent for future waiver disputes and reshape how medical hardships are judged.
FAQ:
Who is Trinidad Chambliss?
Trinidad Chambliss is a college football quarterback who plays for Ole Miss. He grew up in South Bend and has been a longtime fan of Notre Dame football.
Why is Chambliss suing the NCAA?
Chambliss is suing the NCAA because they denied his waiver request for a sixth year of eligibility. His legal team is asking the court for a preliminary injunction so he can play during the 2026 season.
What is Chambliss fighting for?
He wants the NCAA to approve his sixth season so he can continue playing at Ole Miss in 2026. His request was originally denied in January.
How much could Chambliss make if he plays another season?
Reports say his 2026 season at Ole Miss could have earned him close to $5 million.
What happens if Chambliss loses his legal case?
Even if the waiver battle fails, he is projected to be a Top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. That could lead to an NFL contract worth $30 to $55 million.
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