Virginia Exploring Extra Year of Eligibility for QB Chandler Morris
Virginia is looking into the possibility of quarterback Chandler Morris receiving an additional season of eligibility, head coach Tony Elliott confirmed on Wednesday.
It’s still early in the process, and there are no guarantees, but the Cavaliers are doing their due diligence to see if Morris could be granted a waiver that would allow him to return for another year in Charlottesville.
Morris, who transferred from TCU to Virginia ahead of the 2024 season, has already used up four years of eligibility. However, the NCAA has occasionally granted waivers for an extra year in cases involving injuries, redshirts, or other extenuating circumstances. That’s the path Virginia is exploring now.
“We’re working through the process,” Elliott said. “We’re going to do everything we can to see if that’s a possibility.”
Morris started the final two games of the 2025 season for Virginia, including the rivalry matchup against Virginia Tech. While he didn’t put up eye-popping numbers, he brought a steady hand to the offense and showed flashes of the playmaking ability that made him a coveted transfer.
More importantly, he brought stability to a quarterback room that has seen its share of turnover in recent years. His leadership, experience, and poise under pressure were evident down the stretch, and it’s clear the coaching staff values what he brings to the locker room.
If Morris is granted another year, it would give Virginia a veteran presence under center heading into 2026 - something that could be crucial as Elliott continues to build his program in a competitive ACC landscape.
Elliott didn’t go into specifics about what kind of waiver the school is pursuing or what the timeline might look like, but he was clear that the team is committed to exhausting every option.
“It’s about doing right by the young man,” Elliott said. “He’s done everything we’ve asked of him and more.”
Behind Morris on the depth chart, Virginia has a mix of young quarterbacks still developing, and while there’s potential there, none have the game reps or leadership experience that Morris brings. Getting him back for another season would not only provide a safety net but also buy time for the younger players to grow into the role.
It’s worth noting that Morris has dealt with injuries throughout his college career, both at TCU and Virginia, which could factor into the waiver request. The NCAA has shown some flexibility in the past with players who’ve lost significant time due to injury, especially when combined with redshirt seasons or other eligibility quirks.
For now, it’s a waiting game. But Virginia’s pursuit of an extra year for Morris signals just how much they value his presence - both on and off the field.
If the waiver is approved, it could give the Cavaliers a major boost heading into next season. If not, the team will likely turn the page to its younger signal-callers and begin a new chapter at quarterback.
Either way, the decision will have ripple effects on Virginia’s offseason plans - from recruiting to spring ball to the quarterback competition that’s sure to follow.