NCAA Sued by QB Trinidad Chambliss’s Lawyers in Mississippi Court

Lawyers for Trinidad Chambliss, the Ole Miss quarterback, have launched a lawsuit against the NCAA in a Mississippi court. The suit, filed in the Chancery Court of Lafayette County, requests both preliminary and permanent injunctions to allow Chambliss to play an additional season for the Rebels.

NCAA Denies Waiver for Sixth Year

The NCAA’s decision to deny Chambliss a waiver for a sixth year of eligibility came on January 9, 2026. The organization determined that the medical evidence presented by Chambliss and Ole Miss was inadequate. Specifically, the NCAA found that there was not enough documentation from a treating physician indicating an “incapacitating injury or illness,” which is a prerequisite for waiver approval.

Chambliss’s Health Issues

During his time at Division II Ferris State in 2022, Chambliss experienced persistent respiratory problems that prevented him from playing that season. His attorneys argue that the NCAA has not acted in good faith regarding his eligibility and have failed to thoroughly consider his circumstances.

Allegations in the Lawsuit

• The lawsuit claims a breach of contract by the NCAA, affecting Chambliss as a beneficiary of the contract with Ole Miss.
• Ole Miss provided extensive documentation, amounting to 91 pages of medical records, to support Chambliss’s case.

Chambliss’s doctor reported that he faced issues such as recurrent throat infections, fatigue, and severe airway discomfort throughout the academic year. Additionally, Brett Knight, Ferris State’s assistant athletic director, stated that Chambliss’s health challenges limited his athletic activities significantly.

Post-COVID-19 Complications

Coach Tony Annese of Ferris State highlighted that Chambliss experienced complications from COVID-19, including heart palpitations, chest pains, chronic tonsillitis, and difficulties with breathing and sleeping.

Chambliss’s Future at Ole Miss

Despite the ongoing legal battle, Chambliss has committed to joining Ole Miss for the 2026 season, with a potential contract valued at up to $6 million, including incentives.

Legal Focus

This lawsuit is distinct from typical player cases, as it does not challenge the legality of NCAA rules. Instead, Chambliss’s lawyers stress the need for the NCAA to apply its rules fairly. They aim to ensure that all evidence and circumstances surrounding Chambliss’s situation are thoroughly considered in decision-making by the organization.

Recent Performance Highlights

In the previous season, Chambliss stepped in as the starter after Austin Simmons was injured, throwing for 3,937 yards and 22 touchdowns. He led the Rebels to the College Football Playoff semifinals before narrowly losing to Miami, and his impressive performance earned him eighth place in the Heisman Trophy voting along with the SEC Newcomer of the Year accolade.