Cole Hutson, the Texas Longhorns offensive lineman, has been granted a fifth year of eligibility after a court‑ordered temporary restraining order allowed him to remain in college football despite the NCAA’s recent eligibility crackdown. The ruling came after Hutson sued the governing body and highlighted his status as a senior who never signed a professional contract.
A Legal Win Opens the Door
Earlier this offseason Hutson attended rookie minicamps with both the Dallas Cowboys and the Cleveland Browns, but he never inked a deal with either franchise. Because he remained unsigned, the SEC’s new rule that bars players from returning to college after professional involvement does not apply to him, and as a senior he was not obligated to declare for the NFL Draft.
Manning’s Surprise and Praise
Quarterback Arch Manning, who has watched Hutson’s career from the same locker room, said he was taken aback by the news but thrilled to see his longtime teammate back on the field. “It’s great to have Cole back,” Manning remarked, emphasizing the personal connection that has developed over years of shared training and competition.
A Boost for the Offensive Line
Coaches project Hutson as a starter on the line, even though depth charts currently list him fifth or sixth. His experience and size are expected to shore up a unit that has been thin at the tackle position, giving the Longhorns added flexibility as they prepare for the upcoming season.