Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss Battles NCAA for Sixth Year of Eligibility
Oxford, January 8, 2026 – Trinidad Chambliss, the standout quarterback for the Ole Miss Rebels, is in a high-stakes fight with the NCAA to secure a sixth year of eligibility. Chambliss claims he missed the 2022 season at Ferris State due to severe respiratory issues, including enlarged tonsils, and has enlisted attorney Tom Mars to argue his case. As of now, the NCAA has not granted the waiver, leaving Chambliss’s future uncertain despite his agreement to return to Ole Miss contingent on approval. The quarterback is set to lead the Rebels in the Fiesta Bowl against Miami tonight.
Background on Chambliss’s Career and Injury
Chambliss transferred to Ole Miss from Ferris State, where he redshirted in 2021 and missed the entire 2022 season due to health complications. According to medical records submitted by Mars, Chambliss underwent surgery to remove his tonsils, which resolved the issues preventing him from playing. The 91-page filing, along with additional documents, argues that the condition was serious enough to warrant a retroactive redshirt, allowing him to play in 2026. Mars has emphasized that denying the waiver could cause “irreparable harm” to Chambliss, potentially limiting his NFL prospects and NIL opportunities.
The NCAA Waiver Process and Legal Angle
The NCAA’s Division I Academics and Eligibility Committee is reviewing the case, which has seen multiple filings since November. Mars has pushed back against the NCAA’s requests for more contemporaneous medical documentation, asserting that the provided evidence meets bylaws. If denied, Chambliss could pursue legal action in court, citing inconsistencies in how waivers are granted. This case highlights ongoing criticisms of the NCAA’s eligibility rules, with Mars noting precedents where similar waivers were approved. Ole Miss coach Pete Golding is recruiting as if Chambliss is departing, but the team stands to benefit from continuity at quarterback if the waiver is granted.
Key Facts and Timeline
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Request | Sixth year due to 2022 season missed at Ferris State |
| Medical Issue | Respiratory problems, enlarged tonsils; surgery in December 2022 |
| Attorney Involved | Tom Mars, representing pro bono; three filings totaling nearly 100 pages |
| Current Status | NCAA review ongoing; verbal denial in December, but case pending |
| Potential Impact | Could play in 2026; signed deal with Ole Miss contingent on waiver |
| Upcoming Game | Fiesta Bowl vs. Miami on January 8, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an NCAA eligibility waiver?
An NCAA eligibility waiver allows athletes to extend their playing time beyond the standard five years if they can prove circumstances like injury or illness prevented them from competing. Chambliss is seeking a retroactive redshirt for his 2022 season.
Will Trinidad Chambliss play for Ole Miss in 2026?
It depends on the NCAA’s decision. If granted, he has agreed to return under new coach Pete Golding. If denied, he may explore legal options or NIL opportunities elsewhere.
Why is this case significant?
It underscores debates over NCAA rules, player rights, and the transfer portal era. A favorable ruling could set a precedent for similar cases, benefiting athletes with medical histories.