What's next after Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss is granted preliminary injunction?

What does this mean for Ole Miss and Trinidad Chambliss?

This is a win for Ole Miss and quarterback Trinidad Chambliss. After the NCAA had dug its heels in, trying to prevent an additional season of eligibility, the preliminary injunction became the last chance for Chambliss to play in college during the 2026 season.

Chambliss playing had certainly been the plan too. He signed a deal to return to Ole Miss in early January, making it clear that he intended to return to Oxford. 

The Rebels don’t list much experience on their roster currently. That includes redshirt sophomore Maealiuaki Smith, redshirt sophomore AJ Maddox and redshirt senior George Hamsley. Not yet listed on the roster are incoming transfers Deuce Knight and Walker Howard. So, in all of that, getting last season’s starter back was vital.

Chambliss, meanwhile, is choosing this option over trying his hand at the NFL. There, he may have found success. ESPN NFL Draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Chambliss third among draft-eligible quarterbacks in his latest big board rankings. 

NCAA isn’t done fighting against Trinidad Chambliss

NCAA counsel had already left the courtroom when Judge Whitwell shared his ruling. The court is planning to issue a show cause to decide whether or not they should be held in contempt. Regardless, the NCAA doesn’t appear ready to give up on the fight. 

In a statement, the NCAA pushed back on the ruling. The NCAA would even go on to call on Congress to provide stability within the sport. 

“This decision in a state court illustrates the impossible situation created by differing court decisions that serve to undermine rules agreed to by the same NCAA members who later challenge them in court,” The NCAA’s statement said.

“We will continue to defend the NCAA’s eligibility rules against repeated attempts to rob future generations of the opportunity to compete in college and experience the life-changing opportunities only college sports can create... The patchwork of state laws and inconsistent, conflicting court decisions make partnering with Congress essential to provide stability for current and future college athletes.”

The NCAA is likely going to appeal the decision. That appeal will likely also fall on deaf ears in court. 

The average fan is going to be divided on eligibility cases like these, and no two cases are alike. So, they're not always black and white. Clearly, however, they will continue to be a hot-button issue both as it relates to roster construction and the development of younger players.