Trinidad Chambliss Denied NCAA Waiver, But Ole Miss QB Isn’t Backing Down
Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss is still in the fight.
On Feb. 4, the NCAA appeals committee denied Chambliss’ request for a medical hardship waiver tied to his 2022 season at Ferris State. That season was marred by illness and respiratory complications, and Chambliss had hoped those circumstances would grant him one final year of college eligibility.
Instead, the NCAA doubled down on its original decision from Jan. 9, leaving Chambliss and his legal team-attorneys Tom Mars and William Liston-no choice but to continue their legal battle in court.
Ole Miss Backs Its Quarterback
Shortly after the NCAA's ruling came down, Ole Miss made its stance clear: they’re standing with their quarterback.
In a strongly worded statement, the university called the NCAA’s decision “indefensible,” criticizing the subcommittee for ignoring precedent, the medical documentation, and the governing body’s own rules.
"Trinidad's representatives will continue to pursue all available legal remedies," the statement read, "and we will publicly stand behind Trinidad while holding the NCAA accountable."
The message from Oxford is loud and clear-Chambliss isn’t going through this alone.
What’s Next in the Legal Battle?
Chambliss has already filed a 34-page lawsuit in Lafayette County Chancery Court, seeking a temporary injunction that would allow him to play while the legal process plays out. That hearing is scheduled for Feb. 12, with Judge Robert Whitwell presiding.
A temporary injunction would effectively block the NCAA from enforcing its denial, at least for now. But Chambliss is also pursuing a permanent injunction-a far more complicated and drawn-out legal process. If the court rules in his favor, the NCAA could still appeal to the Mississippi Supreme Court, meaning this saga could stretch deep into the offseason.
Why Chambliss Wants to Stay in College
There’s more than just pride or unfinished business on the line for Chambliss. There’s also a significant financial incentive to return to Ole Miss in 2026.
According to his lawsuit, Chambliss stands to make over $5 million through his NIL deal with the Rebels-more than he would likely earn as a mid-round NFL Draft pick. That’s not hypothetical math, either.
Just look at Tyler Shough, who was drafted in the second round by the Saints in 2025 and signed a four-year deal worth roughly $2.7 million per year. Chambliss’ potential earnings at Ole Miss would surpass that.
So while some players might bolt for the NFL at the first opportunity, Chambliss has every reason to stay in Oxford-if the courts give him the chance.
The Bigger Picture
This case isn’t just about one player’s eligibility. It’s about how the NCAA handles hardship waivers, how it interprets its own rules, and how much power it still holds in an era where players have more leverage than ever.
For now, Chambliss remains sidelined by the NCAA. But he’s not done fighting-and neither is Ole Miss. The next chapter of this legal showdown begins Feb. 12, and the outcome could have ripple effects far beyond Oxford.