Image source: Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
The Oklahoma Sooners received tough news this week. Linebacker Owen Heinecke has officially been denied another year of eligibility by the National Collegiate Athletic Association.
After months of waiting, Heinecke learned that the NCAA rejected his appeal of its earlier ruling. The decision means he will not be allowed to return for the 2026 college football season.
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According to multiple reports, the NCAA stood by its original determination. That leaves Owen Heinecke without additional collegiate eligibility despite his efforts to challenge the outcome.
The situation was detailed by George Stoia III of On3 SoonerScoop. Stoia reported that it remains unclear whether Heinecke will take legal action against the NCAA, although other athletes have had some success pursuing injunctions.
Stoia also noted that Heinecke intends to participate in the NFL Scouting Combine this week in Indianapolis. That move suggests he is preparing for the next step in his football career while keeping an eye on any remaining options.
There is still a small possibility that Owen Heinecke could seek a temporary restraining order or injunction to fight the ruling. For now, however, no final decision has been made about a legal challenge.
When the first denial became public, Oklahoma general manager Jim Nagy strongly backed his player. Nagy said there would be an appeal and added that if it failed, “one lucky NFL team is going to get a stud two-contract player and an even better human being,” praising Heinecke for both his talent and character.
Owen Heinecke was a redshirt junior in 2025, which marked his fourth season in the program. He did not play in 2022 but appeared in all 13 games during both the 2023 and 2024 seasons, mostly contributing on special teams.
The NCAA’s ruling centers on Heinecke’s time before arriving in Norman. In 2021, he played three lacrosse games at Ohio State University, totaling roughly 15 minutes of action.
Even though those appearances came in a different sport, the NCAA counted them toward his overall eligibility. As a result, officials determined that Owen Heinecke has exhausted his collegiate playing time.
The decision has sparked debate, especially since several college football players in recent years have received sixth, seventh, eighth, and even ninth years of eligibility. Still, in Heinecke’s case, the ruling stands after two denials.
On the field, the 2025 season was a breakout year for Heinecke. He finished with 74 tackles, four passes defended, three sacks, and one forced fumble in his first major defensive role.
Heinecke earned the starting inside linebacker job during Oklahoma’s “Red November” push to the College Football Playoff. From there, he became a key part of the defense and helped anchor one of the team’s strongest stretches of the season.
Now, the Sooners must find a way to replace that production. With the NCAA shutting the door on his appeal, Heinecke faces a critical choice — continue fighting the decision in court or fully turn his attention to the 2026 NFL Draft.
Either way, the college chapter for Owen Heinecke appears to be ending, and his professional journey could soon begin.
FAQ:
Why did the NCAA deny Owen Heinecke another year of eligibility?
The National Collegiate Athletic Association ruled that Heinecke has exhausted his eligibility. The decision includes three lacrosse appearances he made in 2021 at Ohio State University, even though he played only about 15 minutes in those games.
Did Owen Heinecke appeal the NCAA’s decision?
Yes, Owen Heinecke appealed the NCAA’s initial ruling. However, the appeal was denied, meaning he will not be eligible to play college football in 2026.
Can Owen Heinecke still take legal action?
According to reports from On3, it is unclear whether Heinecke will pursue legal action. Some college athletes have previously sought injunctions or temporary restraining orders to challenge NCAA rulings.
What were Owen Heinecke’s stats in 2025?
Owen Heinecke had a breakout season in 2025. He recorded 74 tackles, four passes defended, three sacks, and one forced fumble while playing for the Oklahoma Sooners.
When did Owen Heinecke become a starter for Oklahoma?
He stepped into the starting inside linebacker role during Oklahoma’s strong “Red November” push toward the College Football Playoff. After earning that job, he quickly became a key leader and helped anchor the defense down the stretch.
Will Owen Heinecke enter the NFL Draft?
With his eligibility denied twice, Heinecke is preparing for the next step in his career. Reports say he plans to participate in the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, signaling a likely move toward the 2026 NFL Draft.
How does this decision impact the Oklahoma Sooners?
The Sooners will now need to replace Owen Heinecke’s production at linebacker. His leadership and defensive output were key parts of Oklahoma’s success in 2025.
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Owen Heinecke Denied Extra Year by NCAA