The NCAA landscape was shaken recently when a U.S. District Court issued an injunction that restores eligibility for a group of college athletes who had been denied a fifth year of participation.
Eligibility Ruling Opens Door
Among those affected is Cole Kozlowski, a 6‑foot‑2, 225‑pound linebacker who started nine of UCF’s twelve games last fall and earned third‑team All‑Big 12 honors with 82 tackles and 7.5 tackles for loss.
Kozlowski’s journey to Orlando began after three seasons at Colgate University, where he honed his craft before joining the Knights in 2025. The court’s decision grants him an additional year of eligibility, a rare opportunity for a player who originally sought a fifth year that had been denied by the NCAA.
UCF’s defensive unit already boasts a deep roster, featuring standouts such as Lewis Carter, Jayden Jennings, Jahleel Culbreath, Tackett Curtis and Rashad Henry. If Kozlowski returns, the Knights could field as many as seven experienced starters on that side of the ball, a prospect that excites both players and coaches.
The ruling also resonates with other Knights who are navigating similar eligibility battles. Defensive end Nyjalik Kelly signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent, while defensive tackle Phillip Dunnam attended rookie minicamp with the Tennessee Titans but has yet to secure a contract, making his return to college football uncertain.
Head coach Scott Frost has indicated that the staff will explore every avenue to strengthen the defense, including the possibility of re‑integrating proven talent from last season’s squad or targeting the transfer portal. Frost emphasized that any addition must align with the program’s culture and roster needs.
The NCAA is expected to appeal the injunction, a move that could delay the implementation of the ruling. Meanwhile, the Knights’ fan base watches closely, hopeful that the potential return of Kozlowski will translate into a more formidable defense for the upcoming season.