A Federal Injunction Opens the Door
U.S. District Judge Charlotte Sweeney issued a preliminary injunction that grants athletes from the high school class of 2022 an additional year of NCAA eligibility, effectively allowing them to compete for a fifth season.
The ruling, however, is not final; the NCAA has announced its intention to appeal the decision, leaving the eligibility status in a state of flux as the organization seeks a higher court’s review.
Coach Blake Anderson’s Outreach
Southern Miss head coach Blake Anderson has been in direct contact with four former players—offensive linemen Aloali'i Maui and Greg Nunnery, defensive lineman Jameer Lewis, and tight end Kyirin Heath—informing them of the program’s interest should they choose to return.
Each of the four athletes has expressed willingness to rejoin the team, contingent on meeting the new eligibility criteria and maintaining physical readiness.
The Five‑Year Eligibility Framework
The new model replaces the traditional four‑season limit with a continuous five‑year window, giving players more flexibility to balance academic progress with athletic development.
While the policy promises greater opportunities, it also raises questions about competitive balance and the long‑term health of student‑athletes.
Preparing for the Season
Southern Miss is slated to open its 2026 campaign on September 5 against Alcorn State, a game that will serve as the first test of how the returning veterans integrate with the current roster.
Coach Anderson remains optimistic, emphasizing that the added experience could bolster the team’s depth, but he also acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the players’ physical condition after a year away from the field.
The university’s athletic department continues to monitor the legal proceedings closely, ready to adjust scholarship allocations and roster planning as the appeal unfolds.