The NCAA’s recent five-and-five eligibility rule experienced a significant legal setback. This came after a District Court judge in Colorado ruled on lawsuits filed by several athletes from the 2022 class. These athletes argued that the NCAA’s new rule infringed on their NIL earnings rights and additional eligibility.
The core legal argument was about athletes who, according to the old rule, had exhausted their eligibility. Lawyers contended that these athletes should be grandfathered into the new system. This would grant them the same rights as those under the new guidelines.
President Trump is pushing lawmakers for the ‘Protect College Sports Act.’
In June 2025, the NCAA logo was visible on their national office in Indianapolis. Under the older rule, completing four seasons meant college athletes’ playing time ended. This was a significant point in the arguments against the NCAA’s new regulation.
Judge Charlotte Sweeney of the U.S. District Court in Colorado has provided a preliminary injunction. This ruling allows a class-wide waiver, giving athletes an additional year of eligibility for the upcoming season. The order covers those players who began in the 2022-2023 season and finished four years under the previous rule by the end of the 2025-2026 season.
Several prominent college basketball names have joined the lawsuit against the NCAA. Now, with Sweeney’s ruling, these athletes are eligible for another year. However, the NCAA retains the option to file an appeal, possibly in the Tenth Circuit court.
The ruling raises questions about undrafted players from recent months. These players might seek to return to school for another season. Some staff have noted that compliance departments are examining these scenarios.
The SEC and Big Ten recently received a revised ‘Protect College Sports Act.’
Managing roster spots is another potential issue for schools. Although football and basketball rosters are generally full, adjustments are possible. Determining how the NCAA will handle these challenges remains uncertain.
Recently, the NCAA upheld the suspension of Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter. After declaring for the NFL Draft, Carter faced an unexpected injury. Returning to college seemed like a viable option for him. However, NCAA rules found him ineligible due to hiring an agent and accepting travel funds. His suspension was reduced after Tennessee’s appeal.
The situation draws attention from athletic departments keen to evaluate similar cases. This case and others could influence how universities assess eligibility decisions in the future.
The coming actions of the NCAA in response to these developments remain to be seen.