Judge Grants Class‑of‑2022 Athletes Fifth‑Year Eligibility, NCAA to Appeal

The Colorado judge ruled that all Division I players who began their college careers in 2022 may compete a fifth season this year, a decision that conflicts with the NCAA’s Age‑Based Eligibility Model introduced in June 2026.

The NCAA will appeal the ruling and has said the change could disrupt rosters nationwide, including potential returns of undrafted NFL and NBA players. The transfer portal will open from August 3‑10 for newly eligible athletes. sports24.club