Colorado Judge’s Injunction Clears Path for 2026 Return
A Colorado judge’s recent injunction has created a narrow window for two former Oregon State football standouts, Van Wells and Jaheim Patterson, to potentially extend their collegiate careers into the 2026 season, pending the outcome of the NCAA’s ongoing appeal.
The decision hinges on the association’s newly adopted five‑for‑five eligibility framework, which was ratified in June 2026 after a series of legal challenges, including a high‑profile case involving former Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia. Under the model, athletes who would have been barred under previous rules are now eligible for an additional year, provided they have not signed professional contracts after their eligibility expired.
While the ruling offers a reprieve for the class of 2022 athletes, it does not guarantee roster spots; schools must still reconcile scholarship limits and positional needs as fall practice looms in August 2026. Indiana University, for example, has already moved to add defensive lineman Stephen Daley, and the University of Oregon’s basketball program secured the commitment of former Arkansas forward Malique Ewin, both of whom could benefit from the extended eligibility window.
The NCAA has signaled its intent to appeal the injunction, but several programs have begun preparing contingency plans. Oregon State’s head coach JaMarcus Shephard has voiced cautious optimism, noting that the university is working closely with compliance officers and athletic administrators to evaluate the feasibility of reinstating Wells and Patterson.
Wells arrived in Corvallis after a transfer from Colorado, where he earned 22 career starts at center over two seasons, while Patterson transferred from Kilgore Community College and made an immediate impact in 2025, starting all 12 games at safety and tallying 84 tackles with two interceptions.