Trinidad Chambliss Denied Sixth Year by NCAA, But His Fight to Play On Isn’t Over
The New York Jets are in the market for a quarterback-and with the 2026 NFL Draft shaping up to be unpredictable under center, every potential prospect counts. That’s why the latest development involving Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss is worth keeping an eye on, especially in Florham Park.
Chambliss, who led the Rebels to a 13-2 record in his lone season at the FBS level, has been denied a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA. The ruling effectively pushes him toward the draft-unless a legal challenge changes the game.
According to reports, Chambliss had applied for an extra year based on medical hardship. The issue stems from the 2022 season, his second year at Division II Ferris State, when he didn’t play due to respiratory issues.
He never suited up that year, and his team argues that the circumstances-supported by medical documentation-should’ve qualified him for a redshirt season. The NCAA didn’t see it that way.
In response to the denial, Ole Miss didn’t hold back. The school released a strongly worded statement calling the decision “indefensible,” citing the “undisputed facts” of Chambliss’ medical condition and the NCAA’s own rules. They’re backing their quarterback all the way, as are his legal representatives, who are pursuing further action in court.
There’s a key date looming: February 12. That’s when a judge in Calhoun County, Mississippi is scheduled to hear a motion for a permanent injunction. If granted, it could allow Chambliss to return to Ole Miss for the 2026 season.
But if the legal route doesn’t work out, Chambliss will likely be part of this year’s draft class-and that’s where things get interesting for teams like the Jets.
Let’s talk about the tape.
Chambliss arrived at Ole Miss after four years at Ferris State and wasted no time making an impact. In 2025, he completed 66.1% of his passes for 3,937 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just three interceptions.
He added another 585 yards and eight scores on the ground. That dual-threat ability was on full display during the College Football Playoff, where he went 53-of-75 for 644 yards and three touchdowns through the air, plus two more rushing scores-without a single turnover.
That postseason run didn’t just put Ole Miss on the national stage-it vaulted Chambliss into serious draft conversations. He showed poise, mobility, and decision-making under pressure, all while commanding a high-powered SEC offense.
Still, there are questions NFL teams will have to weigh. At 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, Chambliss doesn’t have prototypical size.
He’ll turn 24 before Week 1, and he only has one season of FBS starting experience. Those factors might keep him from hearing his name on day one of the draft.
But make no mistake: this is a player who’s earned believers. His performance in the biggest games of the year turned heads across the league. If he enters the draft, Chambliss could be a compelling day two or three option-especially for a team like the Jets, who need depth and upside at quarterback.
For now, Chambliss is caught between the NCAA and the courtroom. But whether he’s back in Oxford or shaking hands with Roger Goodell in April, his story is far from finished.