Chambliss Pleads Case, Hopes NCAA OK’s Waiver

Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss is anxiously awaiting an NCAA ruling on a medical redshirt waiver that would allow him to play a sixth collegiate season in 2026, with his planned return to the Rebels contingent on approval. Chambliss, a transfer from Division II Ferris State, emerged as a star this season after taking over as starter and leading Ole Miss to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Despite agreeing to a new deal with the team, his eligibility for next year remains uncertain due to the pending waiver decision. The waiver request, filed on November 16, seeks an additional year based on medical issues from his sophomore season at Ferris State, where he sat out due to a respiratory condition. Chambliss and his legal team have submitted extensive documentation, including 91 pages of medical records, to support the claim. Attorney Tom Mars, representing Chambliss, has expressed frustration with the NCAA’s slow response, noting that over seven weeks have passed since Ole Miss provided all necessary information. The NCAA initially indicated a leaning against the waiver in early December, but Mars downplays this as a common preliminary stance. Chambliss himself admitted to being “a little frustrated” by the delay, but emphasized that his focus remains on Thursday’s playoff game against Miami. His performance this season, including a standout game against Georgia, has bolstered his case and increased his market value. Financially, the waiver approval would enable Chambliss to capitalize on name, image, and likeness opportunities, with a lucrative deal already in place with Ole Miss. He highlighted the significance of this for his family, acknowledging that while not everything is about money, it provides security and reward for his hard work. The situation unfolds against the backdrop of coaching changes, with Lane Kiffin’s departure to LSU, but key players like Chambliss are committing to stay, strengthening Ole Miss’s future prospects. The team’s success in the playoffs has added urgency to the waiver decision. As the NCAA deliberates, all eyes are on the imminent ruling, which could come before the semifinal game. The outcome will not only affect Chambliss’s career but also shape Ole Miss’s strategy for the 2026 season and beyond.