Eligibility Ruling Clears Path for Fifth‑Year Additions
A recent court decision in the Wisne versus NCAA case has opened the door for athletes who exhausted their eligibility in 2022 to request a fifth year of competition in 2026. The NCAA is currently appealing the ruling, but the interim allowance has already prompted several programs to explore adding experienced players who meet the criteria.
Among those taking advantage of the ruling are David Neuberger, a long snapper from Davenport, Iowa, and Jy Martin, a veteran defender who finished the previous season among the team’s top tacklers. Both athletes have been granted an additional year of eligibility, allowing them to rejoin the roster for the upcoming 2026 season.
Roster Reinforcements Bring Experience and Leadership
Neuberger arrives as an Academic All‑American and will battle true freshman Samuel Kline for the starting long snapper position. His blend of technical precision and scholarly achievement adds a unique dimension to the special teams unit. Meanwhile, Martin brings a proven track record of production, having logged 600 defensive snaps in 2023 and recorded 77 tackles, 4.0 tackles for loss, and four interceptions.
Coach Eric Schmidt has emphasized the importance of integrating proven leaders into the squad to elevate overall culture and maturity. He believes that the experience of players like Neuberger and Martin will not only strengthen the defense but also provide mentorship for younger teammates as the team transitions into a more seasoned lineup.
The Fighting Hawks are slated to open the 2026 season at home against Long Island on August 27. The matchup will serve as the first test for the newly reinforced roster, offering a tangible measure of how the added experience translates into on‑field performance.