A Colorado judge issued a preliminary injunction on Friday that grants athletes from the 2022 graduating class an additional year of eligibility, a move that could reshape college rosters across the nation.
The decision comes amid ongoing debates about the NCAA’s eligibility rules and raises the prospect that a handful of players may seek a fifth year of competition, though the final impact will depend on scholarship limits and professional draft considerations.
A Boost for Former 2022 Class Athletes
Among those affected are former BYU basketball center Keba Keita and football offensive lineman Weylin Lapuaho, both of whom now face a decision between returning to college or pursuing professional opportunities that have so far appeared limited.
Keita, who battled health setbacks during his senior season, demonstrated his capabilities when fully fit and has since joined the Indiana Pacers’ summer league, using the platform to showcase his skills to NBA scouts.
Roster Challenges at BYU
BYU’s offensive line enters the next season with four established starters, meaning Lapuaho’s former left‑guard position will be contested by younger players, while the program may elect to prioritize a healthier fifth‑year center over Keita to address depth concerns.
The broader implications extend to the Big 12 landscape, as the eligibility extension could influence the conference title race by allowing experienced players to re‑enter the competition and potentially alter team dynamics heading into the next campaign.