Ole Miss Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss has taken legal action in Mississippi state court, seeking an injunction against the NCAA. This follows the NCAA’s denial of his waiver request for an additional season of eligibility in 2026. Chambliss filed the lawsuit on January 16, 2024, aiming to challenge the ruling that has left him without the chance to extend his college football career.
The denial came after a successful season for the Rebels, who finished with a 13-2 record and competed in the prestigious Fiesta Bowl. According to the NCAA, the waiver request submitted in November was rejected because it lacked sufficient medical documentation regarding an incapacitating illness or injury. The NCAA stated, “Approval requires schools to submit medical documentation provided by a treating physician at the time of a student’s incapacitating injury or illness, which was not provided.”
The NCAA’s statement highlighted that the documents provided by Ole Miss and Chambliss’s previous school included a physician’s note from a December 2022 visit. This note indicated that the student-athlete was “doing very well” since his last check-up in August 2022. Furthermore, the prior institution reported it had no records of medical treatment or injury reports relating to Chambliss during the relevant period, suggesting that developmental needs and team competitiveness were factors in his limited playtime during the 2022-23 season.
Despite the recent setback, Chambliss is not backing down. His attorney, Tom Mars, expressed confidence in the case’s potential, stating, “We expect the lawsuit to be far more detailed and documented than other eligibility lawsuits that have been filed in the past year.” Mars noted that considerable work is required before they can seek an injunction that would allow Chambliss to participate in the upcoming season.
There is a sense of optimism surrounding Chambliss’s legal fight. Reports from CBS Sports indicate that sources believe there is growing confidence that a Mississippi court may grant the injunction, allowing him to play in 2026. Chris Hummer of CBS Sports remarked on social media that as the case progresses, there are indications of a favorable outcome for Chambliss.
As attention turns to the legal proceedings, Chambliss remains a prominent figure in college football, with many fans and analysts closely watching the developments of his case. The outcome may significantly impact not only his future but also the Ole Miss football program as they navigate the complexities of NCAA eligibility rules.
In the meantime, Ole Miss continues to bolster its lineup, recently securing commitments from top transfer portal wide receivers, aiming to enhance its roster for the coming season. The situation surrounding Chambliss adds an extra layer of intrigue as the Rebels prepare for what could be a pivotal year in their football history.
