Trinidad Chambliss received a major boost in his college football career on Thursday, February 12, when Mississippi Judge Robert Whitwell granted a temporary injunction against the NCAA, allowing the star quarterback to immediately compete for Ole Miss in the 2026 season. The NCAA has the right to appeal the decision. Whitwell criticized the NCAA, saying it “acted in bad faith” in denying Chambliss an additional year of eligibility.
Chambliss Seeks Sixth Year Eligibility After NCAA Denies 2022 Medical Redshirt Request
Chambliss, who spent four seasons at Division II Ferris State before transferring to Ole Miss last season, is seeking a sixth year of eligibility. The case stems from the NCAA denying his waiver request for a retroactive medical redshirt for the 2022 season at Ferris State.
Trinidad Chambliss (NFL)Chambliss missed that season due to health issues, including recurrent throat infections, poor sleep, fatigue, and exercise-related discomfort following a documented episode of mononucleosis in 2020. Chambliss testified that Ferris State coach Tony Annese had promised a medical redshirt for that season. The NCAA countered that Chambliss practiced that year and lacked proper medical documentation at the time.
Chambliss Shines At Ole Miss, Emerges As Top 2026 NFL Draft Prospect
Chambliss’ first season at Ole Miss was spectacular. After starting as a backup, he assumed the starting quarterback role following Austin Simmons’ injury. He led the Rebels to a program-record 13 wins, a College Football Playoff semifinal appearance, and finished the season with 3,937 passing yards, 22 passing touchdowns, 527 rushing yards, and eight rushing touchdowns, earning eighth place in Heisman Trophy voting.
Despite not receiving an NFL draft combine invitation, Chambliss is considered a strong 2026 draft prospect, with mock drafts projecting him between the third and fifth rounds. While his eligibility was uncertain, Ole Miss head coach Pete Golding secured backup quarterback commitments from Auburn transfer Deuce Knight and Louisiana transfer Walker Howard, preparing for any scenario. Chambliss’ temporary injunction now opens the door for him to continue his standout collegiate career in 2026.
