Mississippi Supreme Court Denies NCAA Appeal on Chambliss Eligibility

The Mississippi Supreme Court on Friday denied the NCAA's appeal in a long-running eligibility dispute, clearing the way for Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss to play a sixth season with the Rebels in 2026.

The decision, issued by a three-judge panel led by Justice Josiah D. Coleman, upheld a lower court's preliminary injunction granted in February. That ruling had temporarily restored Chambliss's eligibility pending further litigation. "After due consideration, we find that the petition should be denied," Coleman's order stated. The NCAA had argued that it held final authority over its eligibility rules and that granting the waiver would cause irreparable harm. The organization did not immediately comment on the Supreme Court's action.

The case stems from Chambliss's time at Division II Ferris State in 2022, when he missed the entire season due to severe tonsillitis that caused respiratory issues. Chambliss and his coaches testified that he qualified for a medical redshirt, supported by medical documentation. However, the NCAA denied his waiver request on January 9, 2026, citing insufficient evidence of an incapacitating injury and noting that records showed he had opted...